Blue and gold macaw. All you need to know!

Last Updated on March 9, 2023 by Woody Pet

Blue and gold macaw. All you need to know!

This bird is hard to miss! It is one of those birds that are guaranteed to get your attention as it flies by. As the name suggests, the blue and gold macaw is a bird that has a blue body and a dark yellow chest. It is also known as the blue and yellow macaw. These birds are simply gorgeous.

The face of this bird is partially naked, and there is a strip of green feathers that are right above its beak. During times when it is excited, the naked part of the bird’s face turns pink.

It has a black beak and black or dark grey feet. If you have not seen a blue and gold macaw in real life, chances are you may have seen it in advertisements, movies, or in cartoons. They are some of the most popular parrots that are taken as pets, which makes them available for purchase readily. The first observation and documentation of the blue and gold macaw date back to 1758 by Linnaeus, who was a Swedish zoologist. 

Blue and gold macaw lifespan

The blue and gold macaw’s lifespan depends on the diet it feeds on and how healthy it is. The average lifespan for a macaw is about 30 to 35 years in the wild. If the bird maintains its health or if it is in captivity, it can live for up to 50 years and above. They can even get to 70 years. As a pet, a blue and gold macaw can therefore be with you for a lifetime. 

The incubation period for a blue and gold macaw is about 29 days, in a clutch size of 2 to 3 eggs. After four months of hatching, the birds fledge and remain under the care of their parents for a duration of about a year. 

Blue and gold macaw size 

When it comes to the blue and gold macaw size, these birds are large, being around 35 inches long. This is about 85 to 90 cm long. They have a wingspan of between 41 to 45 inches. When it comes to weight, the blue and gold macaw can be approximately 900 to 1200 grams. 

If you plan to take a macaw as a pet, make sure to find a huge and spacious cage as the bird will need a lot of room. Make sure you also give it time to spend outside the cage as well. A lack of space and general neglect can cause your macaw to show alarming signs such as loss of appetite and drooping wings. 

Blue and gold macaw habitat

The blue and gold macaw habitats are found in woodland and forest areas. They are native to Central and South America. They are found in countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Colombia, Guyana, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and Suriname. These birds like to flock ‘macaw licks’ while in the wild, which are mountains of clay. 

A major threat that is facing the blue and gold macaws is the loss of habitat, mainly due to the deforestation that is happening in the Amazon. It is suspected that these birds will lose about a third of their habitat over three generations due to this. Other threats that the birds face include illegal pet trade and poaching. 

Blue and gold macaw feeding 

Macaws are birds found in forests and woodlands. As such, the blue and gold macaw feeding routine includes nuts, fruits, plant material, and a variety of seeds. The diet of a wild macaw has high quantities of fat which is suited for a bird that has a day of activities such as finding food, nesting, rearing chicks, and flying through the forest. A blue and gold macaw can thrive on a balanced diet that has nutritional value to it. 

The birds of the macaw are also adapted to their feeding habits. They are strong to help then eat seeds and nuts. This can be seen in how easily these birds are able to crack open nuts that have hard shells. Despite feeding on seeds, you can give your blue and gold macaw pet other nutritious foods such as beans, vegetables, and fresh fruits. 

Blue and gold macaw behavior

Humans have a specific way in which they behave. Animals too are similar, with each species having a certain behavior and personality. When it comes to blue and gold macaw behavior, a gentle personality and attitude are what you get. These birds call attention to themselves just by their color and appearance. A blue and gold macaw has a sensitive nature as well as a soft and loving heart. As a pet, the bird makes a great companion. It only takes a peck from the beak of one of these birds to warm and opens up the coldest of hearts. 

Macaws make loud and ear-piercing sounds and the blue and gold macaw is not an exception. This bird has great vocal capabilities, which you should be aware of before you take it as a pet. They are most vocal around dusk, and there is really no way to prevent or stop the vocalizations of a macaw. These birds are able to talk and can repeat short simple words or phrases. 

Conclusion

The blue and gold macaws are not only beautiful birds, but they can also be a great option for pets. While in the wild, these birds form groups. They can be seen spending time in the flocks, flying together, hunting, bathing and even playing together. It is during the breeding season when the group breaks apart as the birds partner to raise their young. Pairs can be seen flying close together, with their wings almost touching. 

As pets, the blue and gold macaw is a good option, since they are loving and affectionate. Their lifespan also makes them a great choice, especially if you are looking for a longtime companion. For their care and hygiene, clean and regularly bathe your macaw pet to prevent them from having feather or skin issues. 

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