Red-fronted Macaw

Ara rubrogenys Bolivia Endemic • Rare & Beautiful

IUCN Status

Endangered

The Red-fronted Macaw (Ara rubrogenys) is a striking and relatively small macaw endemic to the dry inter-Andean valleys of Bolivia. It is easily recognised by its bright red forehead and crown, olive-green body, and turquoise-blue flight feathers. Known for its playful, affectionate, and intelligent nature, the Red-fronted Macaw is highly prized in aviculture. However, due to its very restricted range and ongoing habitat loss, it is considered Endangered in the wild, making captive breeding programs essential for its conservation.

General Description

Common Name	Red-fronted Macaw
Latin Name	Ara rubrogenys
Family	Psittacidae • Macaws
Adult Size	55–60 cm (22–24 in)
Weight	400–550 g
Life Span	35–50+ years in captivity
Sexual Maturity	4–6 years
Clutch Size	2–4 eggs
Gender Difference	No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is required.
Natural Habitat	Dry inter-Andean valleys, cactus scrub, and semi-arid woodlands at 1,000–2,500 m elevation.
Origin / Range	Endemic to central Bolivia (primarily the departments of Cochabamba, Chuquisaca, and Santa Cruz).
Care Level	Advanced • Requires large space and experienced keeper

Ara rubrogenys • Adult showing bright red forehead

BOLIVIAN ENDEMIC • RARE & CHARMING

Plumage & Features

The Red-fronted Macaw is characterised by its bright olive-green body and a vivid red forehead and crown that extends down to the eyes. The wings show turquoise-blue flight feathers, and the tail is long with green and blue tones. It has a bare white facial patch with fine black lines and a strong black beak. The red on the head is the most striking feature and gives the species its name.

There are no recognised subspecies. Juveniles have much less red on the forehead and duller overall coloration.

Conservation Status: Endangered (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix I

Ara Genus

Bolivia Endemic

Rare in Aviculture