Blue-throated Macaw

The Blue-throated Macaw (Ara glaucogularis), also known as the Caninde Macaw or Wagler's Macaw, is a striking avian species endemic to the Los Llanos de Moxos region in north-central Bolivia. This bird is a vibrant tapestry of turquoise-blue and bright yellow, with a wingspan of about 90 cm and a length of 85 cm, including its tail feathers. Weighing between 900 to 1100 grams, the males are typically slightly larger than the females.

Identification Tips

Distinguishing features of the Blue-throated Macaw include its turquoise-blue upperparts, with a brighter hue on the rump and a slightly duller tone on the crown. The underparts are predominantly bright yellow, with the vent displaying a pale blue. A notable characteristic is the blue lower cheek and throat, adorned with blue feather-lines that merge into a bare facial patch. This patch is separated from the crown by a narrow yellow stripe, and the large, black bill is surrounded by bare pink skin. Each individual has a unique pattern of horizontal blue feather stripes on their face, which can be used for identification.

Habitat

The Blue-throated Macaw favors the palm-dotted plains of the Llano de Moxos, eschewing forested areas. This habitat comprises grasslands, marshes, and forest islands, with the species typically found at elevations between 200 and 300 meters.

Distribution

This macaw's distribution is confined to a small area within the Beni Department of Bolivia, where it resides in two distinct sub-populations, one to the northwest and the other to the south of the capital city, Trinidad.

Behaviour

Blue-throated Macaws are often seen in monogamous pairs, though they may form small groups. They are diurnal and tend to remain within a localized area. Their primary means of movement is flight, but they can also climb and walk on the ground. Vocal communication is key, with loud calls signaling alarm and softer caws used for interaction between individuals.

Song & Calls

The Blue-throated Macaw emits a loud, alarming call when sensing danger, and engages in quieter caws for regular communication.

Breeding

Breeding typically occurs once annually, with a clutch size of one to three eggs. Incubation lasts 26 days, and fledging occurs at 13 to 14 weeks. Juveniles remain dependent on their parents for food post-fledging and may stay with them for up to a year, causing the parents to skip a breeding season. Sexual maturity is reached around 5 years of age.

Similar Species

The Blue-throated Macaw can be differentiated from the similar Blue-and-yellow Macaw by its blue (not black) throat, blue (not green) crown, and the lack of contrast between the remiges and upperwing coverts.

Diet and Feeding

Unlike many macaws that favor seeds and nuts, the Blue-throated Macaw primarily consumes fruit from palms, particularly from the species Attalea phalerata, as well as Acrocomia aculeata and Mauritia flexuosa. They also drink liquid from immature palm fruit.

Conservation status

The Blue-throated Macaw is critically endangered, with an estimated 208–303 adult individuals remaining in the wild. Threats include hunting, trapping, habitat loss, invasive species, and disease. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, nest monitoring, and artificial feather programs to reduce hunting pressure for traditional headdresses.

Endangered Species Act

On November 4, 2013, the Blue-throated Macaw was listed under the Endangered Species Act, with special considerations for the large captive population.

Aviculture

The Blue-throated Macaw is relatively common in captivity, with a population of approximately 1000–1100 individuals. They are known to hybridize with the Military Macaw. In captivity, they require ample space and social interaction, and may live for over 50 years.

Plumage details

The top of the head is blue, and the upper body features turquoise-blue plumage.