Macaw Species · South America
Red-and-Green Macaw
Closely related to green-winged macaws — brilliant red, blue and green.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Red-and-Green Macaw is closely related to the Green-Winged Macaw — brilliant red, blue and green plumage across Amazonian South America. Its defining trait is strong pair bonding and loud vocalisation in a species reliant on intact riverine forest.
Red-and-Green Macaw: At a Glance
| Origin | South America |
|---|---|
| Size | Large (90 cm) |
| Typical length | 85–90 cm (33–35 in) typical length |
| Lifespan | 40–60 years (large macaws) or 30–40 years (mini macaws) |
| Plumage | Scarlet-red head and body with green and blue wing feathers and blue tail. Lines of small red feathers on otherwise bare white facial skin distinguish adults. Feather care includes regular misting, safe perches of varied diameter and protection from cigarette smoke and aerosol pollutants. |
| Temperament | Active, vocal, pair-bonded |
| Conservation note | Expert aviculturists only — CITES Appendix I species with wild populations threatened by deforestation and historical trapping. Captive birds need lifelong commitment, large aviaries and social interaction. Conservation support for Amazon corridor protection addresses root threats better than unverified wild-sourced birds. |
History & Origins
Red-and-Green Macaws nest in high riverbank cliffs and large trees in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Indigenous trade in feathers preceded modern pet demand. Range-wide declines led to strict trade controls. Ecotourism lodges in Peru and Brazil showcase wild macaws at clay licks, generating local income for protection.
Red-and-Green Macaw Fun Facts
- Large river cliff colonies can hold dozens of nesting pairs visible from boats.
- They visit clay licks to neutralise toxins in forest fruit diets.
- Red-and-Green Macaws form strong pair bonds with mutual preening.
- They are often confused with Green-Winged Macaws but are a distinct taxonomic species.
Red-and-Green 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.
Respiratory disease
Airborne pathogens, aspergillosis and irritants cause dyspnoea and tail bobbing.
Care: Excellent ventilation, HEPA filtration where appropriate and prompt avian veterinary diagnostics.
Feather plucking
Multifactorial self-trauma of plumage requiring medical and environmental assessment.
Care: Avian vet examination, blood work and structured enrichment plan.
Beak malocclusion
Trauma or poor wear causes misalignment interfering with feeding.
Care: Regular beak evaluation at wellness exams; corrective trim by avian vet.
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.
