Glaucous Macaw
The glaucous macaw is one of the rarest birds on earth. It is considered Critically Endangered, and may be extinct in the wild.
The bird has been observed by aviculturists from various countries however the most recent sighting was in 1992. This alleged sighting occurred in the southwestern region of Paraguay, near the city of Corrientes. The bird was male.
Origin
The Glaucous macaw is an endangered parrot species native to South America. This magnificent bird is characterized by a blue feather pattern, and a sharp beak that is capable of breaking open nuts and seeds. Glaucous Macaws are monogamous pair and both parents tend the chicks. They feed the chicks a diet of regurgitated food for the first few weeks after birth, before they begin to eat solid foods as they grow. Parents are also responsible for teaching young macaws to fly and hunt.
The glaucous Macaw is extinct, yet rumors of its existence persist across the globe. The Glaucous Macaw is believed have gone extinct in the 1800s because of logging and cattle grazing on yatay (Butia) palm groves where the birds gathered their food. The Glaucous Macaw is believed have made a comeback, and is often kept along with its larger cousin, Lear's macaw.
In terms of habitat the glaucous macaw can be found in subtropical forests of South America. They are most often found in areas where there are numerous palm trees. They are also extremely adaptable to different types of forest environments. These beautiful birds are known to be very territorial and will protect their feeding and nesting areas from intruders.
There have been a variety of reports involving the glaucous macaw over the years, but many are considered to be unreliable. The most recent report of a wild occurrence involves a avicultural acquaintance of Ridgely's who claimed to have seen four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This is a ridiculous claim until it is supported with hard evidence. Many experts have concluded that the bird is likely to be extinct since there are no records from the last century. However they have been willing to accept a slim chance of its survival. If it is able to survive it is highly unlikely to reach large numbers.
Habitat
The glaucous Macaw is an impressive bird, well-known for its large size and turquoise-blue coloring. The long tail and wings enhance its graceful and agile movements. This bird is a symbol of love and loyalty. Its beak, which is mostly black, is distinctive in its shape that allows it to crack seeds and nuts. These are a large part of its diet.
The Glaucous Macaw is considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN, which notes that it has a small population and is at a high danger of disappearing. This species was formerly fairly widespread but now it is found in northern Argentina, southern Paraguay, north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state southwards where it was a nesting place in cliffs along major rivers.
The Glaucous Macaw was not rare in its small area, despite the fact that there were no reliable sightings after 1830. There were specimens taken up until the year 1860 (in Corrientes). The last known living Glaucous Macaw was displayed at the Buenos Aires Zoo in 1936 and is believed to be from Brazil.
A re-examination of the historical records suggests that this species was rather generalist in its habitat preferences, with a preference for areas of savanna that were interspersed with palm "islands" and areas of riparian forest along rivers. It was a specialized in the consuming of palm fruit, especially those of the yatay (or chatay) palm (Butia). However, it also ate ripe and unripe fruits, nuts, berries, and even vegetable matter. It nests on steep slopes, in cliffs and sometimes in tree cavities.
This bird was likely gregarious and social, just like other parrots. It could live for up to 14.8 years in captivity and was said to be a dependable breeder that reproduced year after year. In the wild, its life expectancy was likely to be between 50 and 80 years. This species was a powerful seed disperser and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its native habitats.
Feeding
The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most stunning parrots. Its presence has an enormous influence on the surrounding. This massive South American bird is known for its vibrant blue feathers and yellow eyes, and also for its distinctive teardrop-shaped lappet that brackets the lower portion of its beak.
In the past, little was known about food habits and diet of the Glaucous macaw. The earliest references to this subject that I have located are two works by H.W. Bates, "The Naturalist on the Amazons" first published in 1863, detailing his 11-year stay in Brazil and later in his work "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests". buy-macaw.com of these references to the Hyacinthine Macaw (Anodorhynchus aureolarius) however I see no reason to believe that they are not applicable to this species.
It is probable that the Glaucous Macaw was a particular in the consumption of palm nuts, and also took other seeds, fruits and vegetable matter in smaller quantities. The diet of this species was likely influenced by the clearing of forests for agriculture and cattle-ranching by early colonists as well as the yatay (Butia) palms from which it got a large portion of its nutritional value.
In the wild it was commonplace to see the Glaucous macaw in savannahs and forests that were subtropical where palm trees were present. It nestled in tree cavities or on rocky banks and palm fronds. On average two eggs were laid in a clutch. eggs was laid and incubated by the female.
The young Glaucous Macaws are altricial, meaning they depend on their parents to take care of them until they're fully fledged and can fly. Both the male and female are extremely dedicated to their offspring and will constantly hunt for food and protect them from predators.
Unfortunately the Glaucous macaw has been present in the majority of its former habitat. The disappearance of this magnificent bird is likely due to the continuing trapping for the pet trade as well as habitat disturbance, particularly the wholesale removal of yatay palms which it could have gotten its primary food source. The Glaucous Macaw is listed as Critically Endangered.
Breeding
Glaucous macaws typically form long-term monogamous couples and both parents play a role in raising the young. They breed during the dry season, when the food supply is at its highest. The female will lay up to three eggs, which are incubated by the mother for approximately 28 days. In the initial few weeks after hatching, the chicks are fed daily by their parents through regurgitation. Macaws are then able exploring and learning to feed themselves. They are also taught to fly and forage.
Like all species of birds, glaucous macaws are social animals. They are active during daylight hours and rest during the night. During the night, they will often seek shelter inside tree cavities or other suitable nesting places. They are very vocal and their calls can be heard throughout the forest during the day.
The species is expected to rebound from its decline, however it faces many threats including habitat loss and illegal trapping of the bird for pet trade, and deforestation. It is believed that there are just 20 glaucous macaws living in the wild. The IUCN classifies the bird as "Critically Endangered--Possibly Extinct."
The glaucous Macaw is known as the Lear's macaw or the blue-throated hummingbird, and is distinguished by its bright blue feathers. It is a large parrot measuring 70 centimeters in length and has a sturdy beak that can crack open tough nuts and seeds. This gorgeous bird is native to South America and can be found in diverse habitats that include grasslands, lowland forests and wetlands.
This magnificent bird is a symbol of South American biodiversity. It has a regal look with its slim body, vibrant blue feathers, and a light build. Its beak is curvaceous and black, which helps it open the nuts and seeds that comprise a large portion of its diet. It's a beautiful bird, and it is often used in bird shows. It is also popular in captivity where it can live a lifetime.