Golden-collared Macaw
Primolius auricollis
South America • Mini Macaw
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Golden-collared Macaw (Primolius auricollis), also known as the Yellow-collared Macaw, is a beautiful and lively mini-macaw. It features a rich green body with a striking golden-yellow collar around the neck, bright blue wings and tail, and a distinctive bare white facial patch. Smaller and more manageable than the large macaws, it is known for its playful, affectionate personality, high intelligence, and relatively quiet nature compared to its larger cousins. It makes an excellent companion for keepers who want macaw charm in a more compact size.
General Description
| Common Name | Golden-collared Macaw (Yellow-collared Macaw) |
| Latin Name | Primolius auricollis |
| Family | Psittacidae • Macaws |
| Adult Size | 38–42 cm (15–16.5 in) |
| Weight | 240–280 g |
| Life Span | 30–45+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 3–5 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–4 eggs |
| Gender Difference | No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is required. |
| Natural Habitat | Palm groves, savanna woodlands, forest edges, and gallery forests. |
| Origin / Range | Central South America: eastern Bolivia, northern Paraguay, and southwestern Brazil (Pantanal region). |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Smaller macaw, more manageable than large species |
Primolius auricollis • Adult showing golden collar
GOLDEN-COLLARED MINI MACAW • PLAYFUL & CHARMING
Plumage & Features
The Golden-collared Macaw is primarily bright green with a broad, vivid golden-yellow collar around the back of the neck and upper chest. The wings and long tail show striking turquoise-blue. It has a small bare white facial patch, a black beak, and dark eyes. The golden collar is the most distinctive and beautiful feature of this species.
There are no recognised subspecies. Juveniles have less developed golden collar and duller overall plumage that brightens with maturity.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Primolius Genus
South America
Golden-collared Mini Macaw