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Hyacinth Macaw
Scientific Name: Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus

Hyacinth Macaws are the largest of the world's 340 parrot species. They are characterized by brilliant cobalt blue feathers and exceptionally large beaks, and they use these beaks to crack open Manduvi palm nuts.

Growing to be 33-40 inches in length and 3lbs in weight, Hyacinth Macaws are listed as an endangered species, with a wild population of only about 3,000 birds. They are victims of hunting, habitat destruction and the illegal pet trade, and they are found only in Brazil and easternmost Bolivia. There, in the forests and river drainages of the Amazon basin, Hyacinth Macaws nest in hollow tree trunks and holes in cliff faces.

Fun Facts:
  • Hyacinth Macaws-like all other species of macaws-mate for life and are extremely cooperative, sharing all parental duties and responsibilities.
  • These birds have an average lifespan of 60 years or more.
  • A bite from a Hyacinth Macaw's jaws can exert up to 500lbs of pressure per square inch. That is enough to break a broomstick in half!
  • Taking advantage of the dexterity of their feet, macaws sometimes hang sideways or upside down while they harvest palm nuts from fruit clusters in trees
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