Macaw Species · Bolivia
Blue-Throated Macaw
Critically Endangered Bolivian endemic with turquoise throat patch.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Blue-Throated Macaw is a Critically Endangered Bolivian endemic — turquoise throat patch on otherwise green plumage. Its defining trait is extreme rarity in the wild with fewer than 500 mature individuals in Llanos de Moxos savanna.
Blue-Throated Macaw: At a Glance
| Origin | Bolivia |
|---|---|
| Size | Large (85 cm) |
| Typical length | 85 cm (33 in) typical length |
| Lifespan | 40–60 years (large macaws) or 30–40 years (mini macaws) |
| Plumage | Bright green body with vivid blue throat and forehead, yellow eye rings and blue flight feathers. Bare facial skin is pale with fine feather lines. Captive birds in conservation programmes receive identical feather care to other large macaws: bathing, chew items and stress minimisation. |
| Temperament | Rare, social, endangered |
| Conservation note | Expert aviculturists only — wild Blue-Throated Macaws are Critically Endangered with CITES Appendix I protection. Captive populations participate in managed breeding for conservation; pet ownership should prioritise accredited programmes supporting Bolivian field projects. Genetic diversity concerns make responsible breeding essential. |
History & Origins
Blue-Throated Macaws were unknown to science until described in the 1920s from Bolivia's Llanos de Moxos. Nest poaching and habitat loss for cattle ranching collapsed wild numbers. The Blue-throated Macaw Programme and similar initiatives install artificial nest boxes and employ local rangers. Captive insurance populations exist in zoos and specialist aviculturists worldwide.
Blue-Throated Macaw Fun Facts
- Fewer than 500 mature Blue-Throated Macaws remain in the wild.
- They depend on motacú palms for nesting and feeding in Bolivian savanna.
- The species was only scientifically described in 1921.
- Conservation nest boxes have significantly boosted fledging success locally.
Blue-Throated Macaw Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Genetic bottleneck concerns
Small population size increases inbreeding depression and susceptibility to disease outbreaks across related birds.
Care: Managed studbooks, genetic testing and outcrossing plans under conservation programme veterinarians.
Nutritional deficiencies
Imbalanced diets in captivity cause poor breeding results and feather issues.
Care: Avian nutritionist-formulated diets with regular weight and blood monitoring.
Respiratory disease
As with all macaws, fungal and bacterial respiratory infections threaten compromised birds.
Care: Clean housing, prompt veterinary culture and treatment protocols.
Macaws belong in the wild
Every macaw species in this guide is threatened by habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. A symbolic adoption or gift to WARN helps fund anti-trafficking work and sanctuary care for parrots seized from smugglers.
