Scientific Name: Ara ararauna.
Blue and gold macaws are found in the swamps and forests of South America. Their diet includes nuts, seeds, and fruits. In the wild, macaws help promote forest growth by dropping seeds as they eat, thus spreading seeds throughout the forest.
Blue and gold macaws typically live 50 – 60 years in captivity, and can reach 33 inches long. These macaws mate for life, and are usually seen in pairs, family groups, or flocks of up to 25 birds. They commonly roost in trees. Pairs nest in high cavities in dead palm trees. The female lays 2 eggs, which she incubates for 24 – 26 days. The young are altricial, and rely on their parents to feed them and keep them warm until they grow in feathers and learn to fend for themselves. The young fledge, or leave the nest, approximately 13 weeks after hatching. Juveniles may stay with the adults for up to one year.
Not much is known about macaws in the wild. They are very bright, beautiful, and intelligent birds. They make great pets as long as the owner is well educated about the macaw’s diet, spacial requirements and social needs.
SciWorks is home to Blue and Gold Macaw named Huey who was donated in 1987.
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