Scarlet maca
Scarlet Macaw
Ara macao
Central & South America • Classic Beauty
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is one of the most iconic and visually stunning parrots in the world. Famous for its brilliant scarlet-red body, bright yellow upper wings, and striking turquoise-blue flight feathers and tail, it is a true symbol of the Neotropical rainforest. Highly intelligent, social, and outgoing, Scarlet Macaws are known for their loud calls, playful personality, and strong pair bonds.
General Description
| Common Name | Scarlet Macaw |
| Latin Name | Ara macao |
| Family | Psittacidae • Macaws |
| Adult Size | 81–96 cm (32–38 in) including long tail |
| Weight | 900–1,500 g (2–3.3 lb) |
| Life Span | 40–60+ years (up to 80 reported) |
| Sexual Maturity | 3–6 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–4 eggs |
| Gender Difference | No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are usually slightly larger; DNA testing is required. |
| Natural Habitat | Humid tropical rainforests, gallery forests, and woodland edges, often near rivers and clay licks. |
| Origin / Range | From southern Mexico through Central America to northern South America. |
| Care Level | Advanced • Needs very large space and experienced keeper |
Ara macao • Classic adult plumage
MOST ICONIC MACAW • VIBRANT RED & YELLOW
Subspecies & Plumage
Two subspecies are currently recognised. They differ mainly in the amount of blue on the wings and overall size:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| A. m. macao (Nominate) | Southern Mexico to northern South America (most of the range) | Classic form. Bright scarlet-red body with large yellow upper wing coverts and turquoise-blue flight feathers. |
| A. m. cyanoptera | Central America (mainly Honduras to Panama) | Slightly larger with more extensive blue on the wings and sometimes a deeper red tone. |
General Plumage Notes: The Scarlet Macaw is famous for its intense scarlet-red plumage, bright yellow upper wing coverts, and vivid turquoise-blue flight feathers and tail. It has a large bare white facial patch with fine black lines and a powerful black beak. Juveniles have duller red coloration and dark eyes that gradually turn pale yellow as they mature.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Ara Genus
Central & South America
Most Iconic Macaw