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Glaucous Macaw The glaucous Macaw is one the rarest birds in the world. It is considered Critically Endangered and could become extinct in the wild. The bird has been observed by aviculturists from various countries however the most recent sighting was recorded in 1992. The reported sighting was in the southwest of Paraguay near the city Corrientes. The bird was male. Origin The Glaucous macaw is an endangered parrot species that is native to South America. This majestic bird is distinguished by the blue feather pattern and a sharp beak capable of cracking open seeds and nuts. Glaucous Macaws live in monogamous pair and both parents care for the chicks. They feed their chicks regurgitated food for the first few weeks after birth, and later they begin eating solid foods as they grow. The parents also play a vital role in teaching the young macaws how to fly and hunt. The glaucous Macaw is thought to be extinct in the wild, however stories of this gorgeous bird's existence persist across the globe. It is estimated that the glaucous Macaw was extinct in the 1800s because of logging and cattle grazing of yatay palm (Butia yatay) groves, where these birds mostly ate their food. The Glaucous Macaw is believed have returned, and is usually kept with its larger cousin, Lear's macaw. The glaucous Macaw lives in sub-tropical rainforests in South America. They are typically found in areas with abundant palm trees, and are known to be highly adaptable to a variety of forested habitats. These beautiful birds can be territorial and will defend the feeding and nesting area from intruders. There have been a lot of reports involving the glaucous macaw through the years, but most are considered to be not reliable. The most recent report of a wild occurrence involves an friend of Ridgely's that claimed to have seen four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This claim is untrue until it is supported with evidence. The absence of any reliable records of this bird in the past century has caused many experts to believe that it is extinct, but they have always accepted a remote possibility of its survival (Vielliard 1979, Ridgely 1981a, Sick 1985, Chebez 1986a). If it does survive, it will be extremely rare to witness large numbers. Habitat The glaucous Macaw is an impressive bird, renowned for its large size and turquoise-blue coloring. The long tail and wings accentuate its graceful and agile movements. The bird is an emblem of love and loyalty. Its beak, which is predominantly black, has a distinctive shape that allows it to crack nuts and seeds. 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 high chance of becoming extinct. The species was once widespread but is now found in northern Argentina south Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay, as well as Brazil, from Parana state to south, where it nests in cliffs along major rivers. The Glaucous Macaw was not rare in its relatively small area, despite the fact that there were no reliable sightings since 1830. There were specimens taken up until the year 1850 (in Corrientes). Leia blue macaw and red macaw living Glaucous Macaw, believed to be from Brazil was seen in the Buenos Aires Zoo back in 1936. A reassessment of the historical documents suggests that this species was more generalist in its habitat preferences with a preference for the savanna ecosystem, which was interspersed with palm “islands” and areas of riparian forest along river systems. It was a specialist feeder of palm fruit particularly those of the yatay (or chatay) palm (Butia). However it also ate ripe and unripe fruits as well as berries, nuts and vegetable matter. It is a nesting place on steep slopes or in cliffs, and also in tree cavities. Like all parrots, this bird was social, and was probably gregarious. It was able to live up to 14.8 years in captivity. It was believed to be a reliable 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 formidable seed disperser and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its natural habitats. Feeding The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most beautiful parrots. Its presence has an impact on its environment. This large South American bird is known for its vibrant blue feathers and eyes that are yellow, as well as the distinctive teardrop-shaped lappet that brackets the lower portion of its beak. Up until recently, very little was known of the feeding habits and diet of the Glaucous macaw. The first detailed references I have located are two works by H.W. Bates' “The Naturalist on Amazons” which was first published in 1863, which describes his 11-year stay in Brazil. In his later book “As Birds of the Brazilian Forests”, he wrote about the similar experience. Both 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 specialized feeder of palm nuts and also ate other seeds, fruits and vegetable matter in smaller amounts. This species' diet was likely influenced by the clearing of forests for agriculture and cattle-ranching by early colonists, as well the felling of yatay (Butia) palms from which it got a large portion of its nutrition. In the wild, it was common to see the Glaucous macaw in savannahs and forests that were subtropical where palm trees were found. It hid in tree cavities, or on rocky banks and palm fronds. Females incubate and lay two eggs per. The young Glaucous Macaws are altricial, which means they depend on their parents to care for them until they become fully fledged and can fly. Both the male and female are extremely committed to their offspring and will continuously hunt for food and protect them from predators. Unfortunately, the Glaucous Macaw has been eliminated from its entire previous range. The disappearance of this magnificent bird is likely due to the ongoing trapping for the pet trade, as well as habitat disturbance, particularly the wholesale clearing of yatay palms from where it could have gotten its main food supply. The Glaucous macaw is classified as Critically Endangered. Breeding Glaucous macaws are typically monogamous couples and both parents play an active role in the raising of the young. They breed during the dry season when the availability of food is at its highest. Females lay an egg clutch that ranges from two to three eggs that are incubated for around 28 days. Once the chicks hatch they are fed by their parents via regurgitation for the first few weeks of their life. Then the young macaws begin to explore their surroundings and begin to learn to feed themselves. They also learn how to fly and hunt for food. The glaucous Macaw can be described as a very social bird. They are active during daylight hours, and rest at night. They usually seek shelter in tree cavities or other suitable nesting places to sleep. Their calls can be heard throughout the forest throughout the day. While it is believed that the species will recover from its decline in the wild, the bird is facing numerous threats, including the loss of habitat, illegal trapping for the pet trade and deforestation. About 20 glaucous macaws are believed to exist in the wild. The IUCN has classified the bird as “Critically endangered—possibly extinct.” The glaucous macaw, also known as Lear's Macaw or Blue-throated Hummingbird is distinguished by its vibrantly blue feathers. The parrot measures 70 centimeters in length and has a a powerful beak capable of cracking open seeds and nuts. This beautiful bird is native South America and can be found in various habitats that include grasslands, lowland forests and wetlands. This majestic bird is an emblem of South American biodiversity. It has a regal look with its slim body, vibrant blue feathers and its light build. Its black and curved beak makes it easier to crack open seeds and nuts which make up a significant part of its diet. It is a beautiful bird and is often used in birds shows. It is also a favourite in captivity, where it can remain for a long time.