Difference between revisions of "Macaw" - New World Encyclopedia
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==Description== | ==Description== | ||
| + | [[Image:Scarlet Macaw.jpg|thumb|240px|right|Two scarlet macaws]] | ||
| + | [[Image:Hyacinth_Macaw_-_Nashville_Zoo.jpg|240px|right|Hyacinth macaw]] | ||
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'''Parrots''' or psittacines is an [[order (biology)|order]] (namely '''Psittaciformes''') of birds that includes over 350 known [[species]]. They are usually grouped into two [[family (biology)|families]]: the [[Cockatoo|Cacatuidae]] (cockatoo), and the [[true parrots|Psittacidae]] (true parrots). Macaws are members of the true parrots. | '''Parrots''' or psittacines is an [[order (biology)|order]] (namely '''Psittaciformes''') of birds that includes over 350 known [[species]]. They are usually grouped into two [[family (biology)|families]]: the [[Cockatoo|Cacatuidae]] (cockatoo), and the [[true parrots|Psittacidae]] (true parrots). Macaws are members of the true parrots. | ||
Like other parrots, macaws have a generally erect stance and a characteristic curved beak shape with the upper mandible having slight mobility in the joint with the skull. Parrots also are zygodactyl, having four toes on each foot, with two toes at the front of each foot and two at the back. | Like other parrots, macaws have a generally erect stance and a characteristic curved beak shape with the upper mandible having slight mobility in the joint with the skull. Parrots also are zygodactyl, having four toes on each foot, with two toes at the front of each foot and two at the back. | ||
| − | Macaws have very long tails, large and strong curved beaks, and usually brilliant plumage. The largest macaw is the hyacinth macaw (''Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus''), which reaches 100 centimeters (almost 40 inches) in head and body length and 1.4 to 1.7 kilograms (3 to 3.7 pounds) in weight, and the smallest is the red-shouldered macaw, which reaches 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) in length and 129 to 169 grams (4.5 to 5.9 ounces) in weight (San Diego Zoo 2007). | + | Macaws have very long tails, large and strong curved beaks, and usually brilliant plumage. The largest macaw is the hyacinth macaw (''Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus''), which reaches 100 centimeters (almost 40 inches) in head and body length and 1.4 to 1.7 kilograms (3 to 3.7 pounds) in weight, and the smallest is the red-shouldered macaw, which reaches 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) in length and 129 to 169 grams (4.5 to 5.9 ounces) in weight (San Diego Zoo 2007). The hyacinth macaw's wingspan is more than four feet (San Diego Zoo 2007). |
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| + | Macaws eat a variety of fruits, nuts, seeds, flowers, and even insects, and snails. Their powerful beaks allow some species to crush very hard nuts, such as the Brazil nuts (and sometimes even through the metal bars of cages). Some macaws are known to eat clay as an antidote to the toxic chemicals in the seeds or fruits they eat. Scientists have found out that the chemicals in clay mix with the poison allowing it to pass through the bird's [[Gastrointestinal tract|digestive system]] unharmed. | ||
| + | Macaws are known for their beautiful colors. They are also considered to be intelligent. | ||
| + | Macaws have been said to live for up to 100 years; however, an average of 50 years is probably more accurate. The larger macaws may live up to 65 years. | ||
| + | Macaws are monogamous and usually pair bond until one of them dies. AFter the eggs are laid, the mother incubates until the chicks hatch while the father brings food. | ||
==Species in taxonomic order== | ==Species in taxonomic order== | ||
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*''Diopsittaca'' | *''Diopsittaca'' | ||
**''Diopsittaca nobilis'' : [[Red-shouldered Macaw]] or Hahn's Macaw | **''Diopsittaca nobilis'' : [[Red-shouldered Macaw]] or Hahn's Macaw | ||
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| + | Spix's Macaw is now considered to be extinct in the wild, and the Glaucous Macaw is also probably extinct, with only two reliable records of sightings in the 20th century (Marshall 2006). | ||
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| + | The '''Spix's Macaw''' (''Cyanopsitta spixii'') is the only member of the [[parrot]] genus '''''Cyanopsitta'''''. This [[macaw]] was found in Brazil, in the north part of the state [[Bahia, Brazil|Bahia]]. The species probably went extinct in the wild around 2000, when the last known wild bird died <ref name=BirdLife>[http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/index.html?action=SpcHTMDetails.asp&sid=1546&m=0 BirdLife Species Factsheet]</ref>, however, there is a captive population of some 68 individuals <ref name=BirdLife>[http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/index.html?action=SpcHTMDetails.asp&sid=1546&m=0 BirdLife Species Factsheet]</ref><ref>[http://www.umich.edu/~esupdate/marchapril2000/schischakin.htm University of Michigan] The Spix's Macaw</ref><ref name=AlWabra>Al Wabra Annual Report 2005</ref>. | ||
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| + | Previously, the members of the genus ''Primolius'' were placed in ''Propyrrhura'', but the former is correct as per [[ICZN]] rules<ref>[http://www.museum.lsu.edu/~Remsen/SACCprop177.html South American Classification Committee] To reassign the genus of three macaws.</ref>. | ||
==Status== | ==Status== | ||
The majority of macaws are now endangered in the wild. Five species are already extinct, and [[Spix's Macaw]] is now considered to be [[Extinction|extinct in the wild]]. The [[Glaucous Macaw]] is also probably extinct, with only two reliable records of sightings in the 20th century. The greatest problems threatening the macaw population are the rapid rate of [[deforestation]] and the illegal trapping of birds for the bird trade. | The majority of macaws are now endangered in the wild. Five species are already extinct, and [[Spix's Macaw]] is now considered to be [[Extinction|extinct in the wild]]. The [[Glaucous Macaw]] is also probably extinct, with only two reliable records of sightings in the 20th century. The greatest problems threatening the macaw population are the rapid rate of [[deforestation]] and the illegal trapping of birds for the bird trade. | ||
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| + | The '''Cuban Red Macaw''', ''Ara tricolor'', is an [[extinct]] [[parrot]] that formerly occurred on [[Cuba]] and the [[Isla de la Juventud]]. It was a rather small species of ''Ara'' [[macaw]], measuring 45 - 50 cm. A pair was kept in the royal [[menagerie]] of [[Schönbrunn Castle]], [[Vienna]], from [[1760]]. The Cuban Red Macaw was reasonably common around [[1800]]. During the early [[19th century]], the human population in its home range increased dramatically, leading to widespread deforestation. The bird was also hunted for food, and nests were plundered or disturbed to acquire young birds to keep as pets. Until [[1849]], the species seems to have been able to hold its own at least in remote areas, but subsequently, the population crashed never to recover. | ||
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==Birds in captivity== | ==Birds in captivity== | ||
Macaws eat nuts and fruit. They also gnaw and chew on various objects. They show a large amount of intelligence in their behaviour and require constant intellectual stimulation to satisfy their innate curiosity. | Macaws eat nuts and fruit. They also gnaw and chew on various objects. They show a large amount of intelligence in their behaviour and require constant intellectual stimulation to satisfy their innate curiosity. | ||
| − | '''Bonding:''' | + | '''Bonding:''' In captivity unmated macaws will bond primarily with one person – their keeper. Pet macaws thrive on frequent interaction, and a lack of this can lead to their mental and physical suffering. |
Other sub-bondings also take place and most macaws that are subjected to non-aggressive behavior will trust most humans, and can be handled even by strangers if someone familiar is also alongside. | Other sub-bondings also take place and most macaws that are subjected to non-aggressive behavior will trust most humans, and can be handled even by strangers if someone familiar is also alongside. | ||
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A common trend in recent years is hybridising macaws for the pet trade. Hybrids are typical macaws, with the only difference from true species being their genetics and their colors. They tend to have intermediate characteristics of the parents', though the appearance seems to be influenced more by the father's genes. As for their temperament and behaviour, they seem to inherit traits of both parents. Common hybrids include Harlequins (''[[Blue-and-yellow Macaw|Ara ararauna]] x [[Red-and-green Macaw|chloroptera]]'') and Catalinas (known as Rainbows in Australia, ''[[Blue-and-yellow Macaw|A. ararauna]] x [[Scarlet Macaw|macao]]'').<ref>[http://animal-world.com/encyclo/birds/macaws/information/hybrid.htm Macaws, Hybrid Names], and pages on individual hybrids</ref> As a number of species of macaws are endangered, it would be beneficial to maintain pure breeding stock of captive macaws to ensure species preservation. Hybridizing dilutes the available [[gene pool]] and could hasten a species extinction. | A common trend in recent years is hybridising macaws for the pet trade. Hybrids are typical macaws, with the only difference from true species being their genetics and their colors. They tend to have intermediate characteristics of the parents', though the appearance seems to be influenced more by the father's genes. As for their temperament and behaviour, they seem to inherit traits of both parents. Common hybrids include Harlequins (''[[Blue-and-yellow Macaw|Ara ararauna]] x [[Red-and-green Macaw|chloroptera]]'') and Catalinas (known as Rainbows in Australia, ''[[Blue-and-yellow Macaw|A. ararauna]] x [[Scarlet Macaw|macao]]'').<ref>[http://animal-world.com/encyclo/birds/macaws/information/hybrid.htm Macaws, Hybrid Names], and pages on individual hybrids</ref> As a number of species of macaws are endangered, it would be beneficial to maintain pure breeding stock of captive macaws to ensure species preservation. Hybridizing dilutes the available [[gene pool]] and could hasten a species extinction. | ||
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==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
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San Deigo Zoo. 2007. [http://www.sandiegozoo.org/animalbytes/t-macaw.html Birds: Macaw]. ''San Diego Zoo's Animal Bytes''. Retrieved April 15, 2007. | San Deigo Zoo. 2007. [http://www.sandiegozoo.org/animalbytes/t-macaw.html Birds: Macaw]. ''San Diego Zoo's Animal Bytes''. Retrieved April 15, 2007. | ||
| − | + | Dr. Rob Marshall 2006 | |
| + | http://www.avianweb.com/macawsinfo.htm Macaws | ||
Revision as of 17:17, 15 April 2007
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 Blue-and-gold Macaw
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Ara |
Macaws are large, colorful New World parrots, classified into six of the many Psittacidae genera: Ara, Anodorhynchus, Cyanopsitta, Primolius, Orthopsittaca, and Diopsittaca. They are the largest birds in the parrot family in length and wingspan, though the flightless Kakapo is heavier.
They are native to Mexico, Central and tropical South America, and the Caribbean. Most species are associated with forest, especially rainforest, but others prefer woodland or savanna-like habitats.
They are called guacamayos in Spanish and araras in Portuguese.
Description
Parrots or psittacines is an order (namely Psittaciformes) of birds that includes over 350 known species. They are usually grouped into two families: the Cacatuidae (cockatoo), and the Psittacidae (true parrots). Macaws are members of the true parrots.
Like other parrots, macaws have a generally erect stance and a characteristic curved beak shape with the upper mandible having slight mobility in the joint with the skull. Parrots also are zygodactyl, having four toes on each foot, with two toes at the front of each foot and two at the back.
Macaws have very long tails, large and strong curved beaks, and usually brilliant plumage. The largest macaw is the hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), which reaches 100 centimeters (almost 40 inches) in head and body length and 1.4 to 1.7 kilograms (3 to 3.7 pounds) in weight, and the smallest is the red-shouldered macaw, which reaches 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) in length and 129 to 169 grams (4.5 to 5.9 ounces) in weight (San Diego Zoo 2007). The hyacinth macaw's wingspan is more than four feet (San Diego Zoo 2007).
Macaws eat a variety of fruits, nuts, seeds, flowers, and even insects, and snails. Their powerful beaks allow some species to crush very hard nuts, such as the Brazil nuts (and sometimes even through the metal bars of cages). Some macaws are known to eat clay as an antidote to the toxic chemicals in the seeds or fruits they eat. Scientists have found out that the chemicals in clay mix with the poison allowing it to pass through the bird's digestive system unharmed.
Macaws are known for their beautiful colors. They are also considered to be intelligent.
Macaws have been said to live for up to 100 years; however, an average of 50 years is probably more accurate. The larger macaws may live up to 65 years.
Macaws are monogamous and usually pair bond until one of them dies. AFter the eggs are laid, the mother incubates until the chicks hatch while the father brings food.
Species in taxonomic order
- Anodorhynchus
- Anodorhynchus glaucus : Glaucous Macaw
- Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus : Hyacinth Macaw
- Anodorhynchus leari : Indigo Macaw or Lear's Macaw
- Cyanopsitta
- Cyanopsitta spixii : Little Blue Macaw or Spix's Macaw
- Ara
- Ara ararauna : Blue-and-yellow Macaw
- Ara glaucogularis : Blue-throated Macaw
- Ara militaris : Military Macaw
- Ara ambiguus : Buffon's Macaw or Great Green Macaw
- Ara macao : Scarlet Macaw or Aracanga
- Ara chloroptera : Greenwing Macaw or Red-and-green Macaw
- Ara rubrogenys : Red-fronted Macaw
- Ara severa : Chestnut-fronted Macaw or Severe Macaw
- Ara atwoodi : Dominican Green-and-Yellow Macaw
- Ara erythrocephala : Jamaican Green-and-Yellow Macaw
- Ara gossei : Jamaican Red Macaw
- Ara guadeloupensis : Lesser Antillean Macaw
- Ara tricolor : Cuban Red Macaw
- Ara autocthones : Saint Croix Macaw[1]
- Orthopsittaca
- Orthopsittaca manilata : Red-bellied Macaw
- Primolius
- Primolius couloni : Blue-headed Macaw
- Primolius maracana : Illiger's Macaw or Blue-winged Macaw
- Primolius auricollis : Golden-collared Macaw
- Diopsittaca
- Diopsittaca nobilis : Red-shouldered Macaw or Hahn's Macaw
Spix's Macaw is now considered to be extinct in the wild, and the Glaucous Macaw is also probably extinct, with only two reliable records of sightings in the 20th century (Marshall 2006).
The Spix's Macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii) is the only member of the parrot genus Cyanopsitta. This macaw was found in Brazil, in the north part of the state Bahia. The species probably went extinct in the wild around 2000, when the last known wild bird died [2], however, there is a captive population of some 68 individuals [2][3][4].
Previously, the members of the genus Primolius were placed in Propyrrhura, but the former is correct as per ICZN rules[5].
Status
The majority of macaws are now endangered in the wild. Five species are already extinct, and Spix's Macaw is now considered to be extinct in the wild. The Glaucous Macaw is also probably extinct, with only two reliable records of sightings in the 20th century. The greatest problems threatening the macaw population are the rapid rate of deforestation and the illegal trapping of birds for the bird trade.
The Cuban Red Macaw, Ara tricolor, is an extinct parrot that formerly occurred on Cuba and the Isla de la Juventud. It was a rather small species of Ara macaw, measuring 45 - 50 cm. A pair was kept in the royal menagerie of Schönbrunn Castle, Vienna, from 1760. The Cuban Red Macaw was reasonably common around 1800. During the early 19th century, the human population in its home range increased dramatically, leading to widespread deforestation. The bird was also hunted for food, and nests were plundered or disturbed to acquire young birds to keep as pets. Until 1849, the species seems to have been able to hold its own at least in remote areas, but subsequently, the population crashed never to recover.
Birds in captivity
Macaws eat nuts and fruit. They also gnaw and chew on various objects. They show a large amount of intelligence in their behaviour and require constant intellectual stimulation to satisfy their innate curiosity.
Bonding: In captivity unmated macaws will bond primarily with one person – their keeper. Pet macaws thrive on frequent interaction, and a lack of this can lead to their mental and physical suffering.
Other sub-bondings also take place and most macaws that are subjected to non-aggressive behavior will trust most humans, and can be handled even by strangers if someone familiar is also alongside.
Captive pet macaws sometimes display difficult behavior, the most common being biting, screaming, and feather-plucking. Feather-plucking does not normally occur in the wild, strongly suggesting that it is the result of a neurosis related to life in captivity.
Most pet macaws had ancestors living in the wild just two or three generations ago, and are not truly domesticated by any reasonable definition. (This is unlike, for example, dogs; some estimates put the domestication of dogs as far back as 40,000 years ago.)
All species of macaws have very powerful, large beaks and are capable of causing considerable harm to both children and adults. They tend to be extremely loud: their voices are designed to carry over long distances. This makes macaws very demanding birds to keep as a household pet. Additional complications arise from the intelligence levels of macaws and their negative responses to stimuli people generally use on domestic pets.
International trade in Macaws is illegal under the CITES agreement. Only captive born birds may be sold as pets.
Hybrids
A common trend in recent years is hybridising macaws for the pet trade. Hybrids are typical macaws, with the only difference from true species being their genetics and their colors. They tend to have intermediate characteristics of the parents', though the appearance seems to be influenced more by the father's genes. As for their temperament and behaviour, they seem to inherit traits of both parents. Common hybrids include Harlequins (Ara ararauna x chloroptera) and Catalinas (known as Rainbows in Australia, A. ararauna x macao).[6] As a number of species of macaws are endangered, it would be beneficial to maintain pure breeding stock of captive macaws to ensure species preservation. Hybridizing dilutes the available gene pool and could hasten a species extinction.
Gallery
Blue and Gold Macaws (Ara ararauna)
Military Macaw (Ara militaris)
A Scarlet Macaw
Golden-collared Macaw
ReferencesISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- ↑ Forshaw, Joseph Michael (1973, 1981). Parrots of the World.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 BirdLife Species Factsheet
- ↑ University of Michigan The Spix's Macaw
- ↑ Al Wabra Annual Report 2005
- ↑ South American Classification Committee To reassign the genus of three macaws.
- ↑ Macaws, Hybrid Names, and pages on individual hybrids
- ITIS 177653, 177659 as of 2002-07-15
Abramson, J., Speer, B. L., & Thomsen, J.B. 1999, "The Large Macaws, Their Care and Breeding", Raintree Publications:CA
San Deigo Zoo. 2007. Birds: Macaw. San Diego Zoo's Animal Bytes. Retrieved April 15, 2007.
Dr. Rob Marshall 2006 http://www.avianweb.com/macawsinfo.htm Macaws
External links
- Araproject
- Open Directory:Recreation:Pets:Birds:Species:Parrots:Macaws
- ParrotScience - parrot information site
- San Diego Zoo Animal Bytes: Macaw
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