Birds of the World

Psittacidae : Parrots

Blue-and-Yellow Macaw

Ara ararauna

Tambopata, Peru - December 2008

This large macaw has historically been very popular in the pet trade, with huge numbers being exported during the '70's and 80's. In some areas, such as the Surinam river basin this intense pressure has resulted in its local extinction. It is, however, still common throughout much of its range.

Tambopata, Peru - December 2008

Tambopata, Peru - December 2008

The pair bond is very strong in macaws and they stay close together throughout the year. Even when in large flocks the pair will often fly so close to each other that their wingtips are almost touching.

Tambopata, Peru - December 2008

Blue-and-Yellow Macaws are one on many species that visit clay-licks, forming spectacular mixed-species aggregations.

Tambopata, Peru - December 2008

As with all of the photos on this website (unless otherwise stated), the photos displayed on this page were all taken in the bird's natural habitat and depict wild, unrestrained individuals.