Glaucous Macaw: 11 Thing You've Forgotten To Do
Glaucous Macaw: 11 Thing You've Forgotten To Do
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Glaucous Macaw
The glaucous macaw is one of the rarest birds on earth. It is critically endangered and may even be extinct.
This bird has been reported by aviculturists from various countries however the most recent sighting was reported in 1992. The alleged sighting was reported to be in the southwest of Paraguay near the city Corrientes. The bird was male.
Origin
The Glaucous Macaw is a species of parrot native to South America. It is threatened. This majestic bird is distinguished by its unique blue feather pattern and powerful beak capable of breaking open tough nuts and seeds. Glaucous Macaws form monogamous long-term pair and both parents tend the chicks. The chicks are fed regular food during the first few weeks of their lives and then a variety of solid foods as the chicks grow. Parents are also responsible for teaching the young macaws to fly and hunt.
The glaucous macaw is considered to be extinct in the wild, but reports of this beautiful bird's existence are still spreading all over the world. It is believed that the glaucous macaw was extinct in the 1800s due to cattle grazing and logging in yatay palm (Butia yatay) trees, where these birds typically gathered their food. The glaucous Macaw is believed to have made a comeback, and is often kept along with its larger relative, Lear’s macaw.
In terms of habitat The glaucous macaw is able to be found in subtropical forests of South America. They are usually found in areas that have plenty of palm trees, and they are believed to be extremely adaptable to various types of forested habitats. These beautiful birds are territorial and will defend the feeding and nesting area from intruders.
There have been a lot of reports about the glaucous macaw over the years, but they are considered to be not reliable. The most recent wild claim was made by an avicultural acquaintance of Ridgely who claimed to have seen four Glaucous Macaws in Califomia. This is a completely absurd claim until it is confirmed with hard evidence. Many experts have concluded that the bird is likely extinct as there are no records in the last century. However, they have always been willing to accept a slim chance of its survival. If it is able to survive, it is extremely unlikely to reach large numbers.
Habitat
The Glaucous Macaw is a magnificent bird, known for its size and turquoise-blue coloration. Its long tail and wings accentuate its graceful and agile movements. The bird is an emblem of love and loyalty. Its beak is mostly black and has a unique shape that allows it to break open seeds and nuts which comprise a large portion of its diet.
IUCN has classified the Glaucous Macaw as Critically Endangered. It notes that there is a small population of the bird and it is at high-risk of extinction. The species was previously fairly widespread but now it is found in northern Argentina and southern Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state southwards, where it is nestled in cliffs on major rivers.
Although there have been no credible sightings of the species since 1830, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be a rare species in its limited range. specimens were taken from 1830 to 1860 (in Corrientes). The last living Glaucous Macaw believed to originate from Brazil, was exhibited in the Buenos Aires Zoo back in 1936.
A re-examination of the historical records suggests that this species was very generalist in its preferences for habitat with a preference for savanna habitat intermingled with palm "islands" and bands of riparian forest along rivers. It was a specialised feeder of palm fruits, particularly those of the chatay or yatay palm (Butia yatay) but it was likely to also feed on ripe and unripe fruit such as berries, nuts, and vegetable matter. It nests on slopes that are steep on cliffs, in cliffs, and occasionally in tree cavities.
As with other parrots this bird was social and likely to be sociable. It could live up to 14.8 years in captivity. It was said to be a dependable breeder, reproducing year after year. The lifespan of the species in the wild was 50-80 years. This species was a formidable seed disperser and may have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its natural habitats.
Feeding
The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most stunning parrots. Its presence can have an enormous impact on its environment. This massive South American parrot is known for its vibrant blue feathers, bright yellow eyes and the teardrop-shaped lappet on the lower portion of its beak.
In the past, little was known about feeding habits and diet of the Glaucous macaw. The earliest detailed references I have found are in two works by H.W. Bates, "The Naturalist on the Amazons" first published in 1863, click here detailing his 11 year stay in Brazil and later in his work "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests". Both of them are about the Hyacinthine Macaw, Anodorhynchus Aureolarius. There is no reason to think that they could not apply to this species.
It is probable that the Glaucous Macaw was a specialist feeder of palm nuts and also consumed other seeds, fruits and vegetable matter in smaller quantities. The diet of this species is likely to be influenced by the clearance of forests by early colonists to cultivate and cattle ranching and the removal of the yatay palm (Butia yatay) from which it may have gotten a lot of its diet.
In the wild in the wild, the Glaucous Macaw was commonly found in subtropical forests that had the savannahs and cliffs surrounded by palm trees, where it nested in tree cavities, on rocky banks, or in the top of palm fronds. The female incubates and then lays two eggs per.
The young Glaucous Macaws are altricial, meaning they rely on their parents to look after them until they're fully fledged and can fly. Both females and males are extremely committed to their offspring and tirelessly hunt for food and protect them from predators.
Unfortunately the Glaucous macaw isn't found in most of its former habitat. The disappearance of the majestic bird is likely to be due to the continued trapping of birds for the pet industry and disturbance to habitat, particularly the mass clearing of palm yatays which may have been its main food source. The Glaucous Macaw is classified as Critically Endangered.
Breeding
Glaucous macaws typically form long-term monogamous pairs, with both parents playing part in raising the young. They breed in the dry season when food availability is at its highest. The female lays two to three eggs which are incubated by the mother for about 28 days. For the first few weeks after hatching, the chicks are fed by their parents via regurgitation. The macaws' young begin to explore their surroundings and begin to learn to eat themselves. They also learn how to fly and hunt for food.
Like all species of birds, glaucous macaws are highly social creatures. They are active during daylight hours, and rest during the night. At night they usually seek shelter inside tree cavities or other nesting areas that are suitable. Their calls can be heard in the forest throughout the day.
Although it is hoped the species will recover from its decline in the wild, the bird is facing numerous threats, including the loss of habitat and illegal trapping for pet trade and deforestation. It is estimated that there are less than 20 glaucous macaws in the wild. The IUCN has classified the bird as "Critically endangered, possibly extinct."
The glaucous macaw is also known as the Lear's macaw or blue-throated hummingbird. It can be distinguished by its vivid blue feathers. It is a large bird, with a length of 70 centimeters and has a sturdy beak that can crack open tough nuts and seeds. This gorgeous bird is native to South America and can be found in diverse habitats, including grasslands, forests, and lowland wetlands.
This magnificent bird is an emblem of South American biodiversity. Its elegant appearance is reflected with its slender body, bright blue feathers, and lightweight build. Its beak is curved and black, which helps it break open the seeds and nuts which comprise a significant portion of its diet. It is a beautiful bird, and is frequently featured in bird shows. It is also popular in captivity where it can live a lifetime.