Macaws are brilliantly-colored, neotropical parrots. They are intelligent, social birds that communicate with each other through loud squawks and screams. Long, flexible toes help the macaw hold onto branches and manipulate objects. The macaw uses its strong beak as both a nutcracker and a ‘third foot’ for climbing.
Blue and gold macaws have been successfully reintroduced to their former range in Trinidad. Learn more about how the Cincinnati Zoo is helping these colorful wonders in the wild.
Did You Know?
Stretching Their Wings: A macaw's wingspan is over three-and-a-half feet wide.
- A bone in the macaw’s tongue helps the bird break into fruit.
- A pair of macaws mate for life, and both parents help raise the young.
- Important tools for communication, bright colors and vocalizations also make the macaw a popular pet and an easy target for poachers.