Range

South America is the native home of the Illiger’s macaw. Here they can be found in Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. There are portions of their range in which they are already believed to be extinct.

Habitat

They make their home in evergreen, deciduous and galley forests along with savanna habitats. One of their most common habitats is palm groves which provide an abundance of food. There is some evidence that they can survive in areas which have become fragmented.

Reproduction

Breeding season varies by region. It typically takes place from December to February. Pairs are monogamous and remain together for life.

A nest is formed in a cavity or hollow in a tree. The preferred tree used for nesting by these birds is the caraibeira tree.

Following a successful mating the female will deposit between 2 and 4 eggs in to the nest hollow. She incubates the eggs for the nest 25-27 days. At hatching chicks weigh just 11g (0.4oz)

Eggs may be taken by mammals and snakes.

Both parents will care for the chicks once they hatch. It will take 11 weeks for them to fledge though they remain with their parents for a further year to learn the skills needed to survive in the forest.

Sexual maturity is reached at 2-4 years old.

Behaviour

They spend most of their time in a pair though will come together in small flocks as well.

These parrots are noisy and make a range of raucous calls. In captivity they may also learn to copy a few words from their owner.

Predators and Threats

Humans are a major threat to the Illiger’s macaw. These birds are taken for the illegal wildlife trade to be sold as pets.

They are also threatened through deforestation which has removed large parts of their habitat.

Quick facts

The last known wild spix macaw had paired up with an Illiger’s macaw and they produced a hybrid egg together.

A common problem identified in wild Illiger’s macaws is cataracts which impede the ability of aged individuals to find food.

They are also referred to as the blue winged macaw.