These gentle Giants are the kings and queens of their species with a very high intelligent level that demands respect yet asks for interaction.
Length: 36-42 inches
Weight: 1400-2000 grams
Life span: 70-90 years
Age at Weaning: 6-9 months
Age at Maturity: 5-7 years
Temperament: Hyacinth macaws are known to be the most gentle of all the macaw species. They are relatively calm, yet still playful in and out of the cage. They have incredibly strong beaks and jaw muscles, yet hardly use them when out of the cage. A hand-raised Hyacinth Macaw makes the ultimate pet!
Talking Ability: Poor
Noise Level: Extremely High
Cage Requirements: 36" x 48", 48" x 60" for larger Hyacinths. Bar spacing 11/2"
Interesting Facts: Hyacinth macaws not only have yellow face patches and eye rings, but a pale yellow hue to all of their skin except their feet!
GREENWING MACAWS
Ara chloroptera
Length: 34-38 inches
Weight: 1200-1500 grams
Life span: 70-90 years
Age at Weaning: 16-20 weeks
Age at Maturity: 3-5 years
Country of Origin: Panama, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay
Temperament: These birds are much calmer than their Blue and Gold cousins, but as babies they enjoy a much higher activity level. They are usually more affectionate, and do require a large amount of time like the other macaws. Most people agree that these macaws are very demanding of attention and space, so they definitely aren't for everyone.
Talking Ability: Low to Moderate
Noise Level: Extremely High
Cage Requirements: 24" x 36"
Interesting Facts: Though often mistaken for Scarlet Macaws, the Green-Winged macaws are very different both physically and mentally. They have no yellow on their wings and very prominent facial stripes. They are also quite a bit larger. They are not as prone to aggression as the Scarlets, however they still need to be handled correctly to prevent any unwanted behavior.
BLUE & GOLD MACAWS
Ara ararauna
Length: 30-34 inches
Weight: 900-1100 grams
Life span: 70-90 years
Age at Weaning: 16-20 weeks
Age at Maturity: 3-5 years
Country of Origin: Northern South America, Brazil
Temperament: These are the most common large macaw in pet stores and homes. They are incredibly active and playful, yet can calm down enough for a good head scratch. They are affectionate with their owners, but sometimes shy or aggressive with others. They are notorious chewers with their large beaks and very active, so many toys and a large cage is necessary.
Talking Ability: Moderate to Good
Noise Level: Extremely High
Cage Requirements: 36" x 48"; Bar Spacing 1" to 1 1/2"
Interesting Facts:
HYBRID MACAWS
Blue & Gold and a Scarlet equals a Catalina
Blue & Gold and a Greenwing equals a Harliquin
Blue & Gold and a Hyacinth equals a Caloshua
Scarlet and a Greenwing equals a Ruby
Scarlet and a Military equals a Shamrock
Scarlet and a Buffons equals a Verde
Catalina and a Scarlet equals a Camelot
Camelot and a Scarlet equals a Capri
Greenwing and a Military equals a Calico
Military and a Blue & Gold equals a Miligold
Military and a Buffons equals a Miliffons
Buffons and a Greenwing equals a Buffwing
Greenwing and a Calico equals a Cameo
Catalina and a Greenwing equals a Flame
Note: Catalinas are known as Rainbows in Australia