The glaucous macaw is a critically endangered or possibly extinct species of large, blue and grey South American parrot, a member of a large group of neotropical parrots known as macaws. This macaw is closely related to Lear's macaw and the hyacinth macaw. In Guaraní, it is called guaa-obi after its vocalizations.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Historically recorded from parts of Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, southern Brazil, and possibly Uruguay, primarily along major river systems. It favored gallery forests, riparian woodlands, and adjacent palm savannas, where palms produced abundant nuts. Birds were often noted near the Paraná–Uruguay river basins and seasonal wetlands. Due to habitat loss and persecution, its present occurrence is unconfirmed, with no verified populations despite occasional reports.
Altitude Range
0–500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large blue‑grey South American macaw, it is closely related to Lear's and Hyacinth macaws and may now be extinct in the wild. Historical accounts link it strongly to riparian woodlands and palm savannas, especially where yatay palms were abundant. Its common name refers to the bird’s glaucous (bluish‑grey) sheen, and its Guaraní name imitates its loud, ringing calls. Most modern reports are unconfirmed, so any sighting warrants careful documentation.
Illustration of glaucous macaw (foreground) with Spix's macaw in Hamburg, 1895
Specimen photographed in the Buenos Aires Zoo, 1936.
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with deep wingbeats and long-tailed silhouette
Social Behavior
Usually observed in pairs or small family groups, maintaining close contact with loud calls. Pairs are believed to be monogamous and to reuse nest sites. Nesting was likely in large tree cavities near rivers or in palms. Flocks historically moved locally in search of fruiting palms.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, carrying macaw screams, often given in flight; notes are ringing and somewhat harsh. Contact calls repeat in series and can be heard over long distances along river corridors.
