How big is the largest macaw?
The largest macaw, and the largest parrot in the world by length, is the hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus). From the tip of its bill to the end of its tail it measures roughly one metre, about 95 to 100 centimetres. That tail is doing a lot of the work, but even so this is a genuinely large bird with a presence to match its cobalt-blue plumage. For the wider family picture, see our macaw species guide.
How much does a hyacinth macaw weigh?
Adults typically weigh between about 1.2 and 1.7 kilograms. That makes the hyacinth the heaviest flying parrot in the world; only the chunky, flightless kakapo of New Zealand outweighs it overall.
What is a macaw's wingspan?
Hyacinth macaws have a wingspan commonly reported in the range of about 120 to 140 centimetres, broad enough to carry that heavy body in strong, direct flight across open palm savanna.
How strong is a macaw's beak?
This is where the hyacinth macaw really stands out. Its beak is built to crack the rock-hard nuts of acuri and bocaiuva palms, a food source almost no competitor can exploit. Estimates of its bite pressure run to several hundred pounds per square inch, enough to split nuts and even coconuts that would resist a machete. Despite that power, the bird uses its bone-cored tongue to handle and taste food with real delicacy.
Is it the largest macaw by every measure?
By length and weight, yes. Wingspan can overlap with other big macaws, but no parrot is longer. The scarlet and green-winged macaws are large and dramatic, but the hyacinth is in a class of its own.
Why size matters for conservation
Being big and slow-breeding is a vulnerability. The IUCN lists the hyacinth macaw as Vulnerable, with roughly 4,300 mature individuals in its headline estimate and a decreasing trend, pressured by habitat loss, fire and historic trapping. Our partner-funded work in Brazil supports the reception centres that rehabilitate confiscated macaws; you can help keep that capacity open if you wish.
Read the full Hyacinth macaw wildlife guide for the facts, IUCN status and conservation context — or donate to WARN to help fund the local partners protecting this species.
