Blondie Scarlet Macaw Bird
With their flashy feathers that come in an array of colors, scarlet macaws resemble flying bags of Skittles. The forest dwellers use bright colors to warn of danger.
In the wild in the wild, they consume nuts, leaves, fruits and seeds. They also supplement their diet with berries and clay taken from the river's banks. They are social birds that mate for the rest of their lives.
Habitat
The macaw with the scarlet color is the most diverse of all parrots. It is found in a broad range of habitats. In the wild they live in large trees in large groups hunting in forests and even near rivers. Although they are generally gentle, they can become aggressive when breeding. Both males and female take care of the young. They lay a couple of to three white eggs, typically in the cavities of dead branches. When they reach the age of five, young scarlet macaws are sexually mature.
This bird's large beak can be used to open seeds, nuts and fruits. They feed mostly on insects, but also plants and are frequent visitors to mineral deposit sites such as clay licks. They are diurnal which means they are active during the day but sleep at night.
Macaws mimic human speech and are highly intelligent. They are capable escape artists and are able to fly away quickly if they are feeling threatened. Leia blue macaw and red macaw can also alter their color to hide. The scarlet Macaw is an aggressive bird that makes loud screams, low-pitched sounds and other noises to warn animals of predators.
In the wild the scarlet macaw can live up to 50 years. In captivity they can live longer. They are a very popular bird in the aviculture industry, since they are known to be very social and easy to train. They are trained to perform many tricks.
Despite their striking plumage the scarlet macaw is a very threatened species. They are primarily taken to be sold as pets, and their habitat is shrinking as deforestation and roads take over their habitats.
Many organizations such as World Parrot Trust (WPT) and Association for Parrot Protection (APP), are working to protect the scarlet macaw. These organizations are committed to protecting the birds, improving their habitats and conducting research on these magnificent creatures. It is important to keep in mind that handling the birds too much could cause stress. They also have the potential to contract parrot fever, which is an infection that causes dry coughing and body pain.
Diet
Macaws are omnivores, and eat many different kinds of food, including fruits vegetables, nuts, and seeds. They are one of the most intelligent species of birds and can be taught to communicate with humans and do tricks like mimicking sounds and words. These birds are demanding and require lots of attention. They possess the emotional intelligence and temper tantrums of the four- to eight-year-old.
A high-quality commercial pellet diet will provide the macaw parrot most of the protein, fats, vitamins and minerals it requires. In addition to these pellets, fresh foods are recommended in small amounts every day. This could include a large assortment of fresh, diced fruit and vegetables, which include dark greens, cooked eggs, lean beef, pasta and rice.
Fresh fruits and veggies should be cleaned prior to offering to the bird and cut into sizes that are suitable for the species. Some examples of healthy fruits and vegetables for this species are apples, apricots, oranges, grapes and pears, as well a banana. Avoid avocados (which are toxic to parrots) as well as celery and stringy vegetables.
Nuts and seeds are a favorite with bird owners as they are easy to feed but they shouldn't be the only source of food. The nuts and seeds are extremely high in fat and may be deficient in calcium, vitamin A and other nutrients. If a macaw only eats these nuts and seeds, it could be more prone to diseases and have a lower life duration than those fed a balanced diet which includes fortified bird food as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.
If a macaw is fed properly, it will be reproductively mature around three to four years old. The macaws are monogamous, and will remain with their mates for the rest of their lives. A pair will produce two to four round, white eggs that are hatched by females for 24 to 25 days. The eggs are taken care of by both parents and are with the family until they are able to be independent.
Feeding
Macaws are omnivores, and they eat a variety of foods. Their powerful beaks can easily crack nuts, seeds and fruits, and their tongues can extract juice from vegetables and fruits. They also have a powerful gripping toes on both feet and can hold objects with them. They also can grasp twigs and branches, which they use to play and exercise with. To keep them healthy and content, they require lots of love and attention from their owners.
If a bird is stressed, it might eat its own feathers or bite itself, which can cause infection and even death. The best ways to reduce stress include a calm atmosphere, regular social groups and a safe environment from predatory animals. Certain species of birds particularly older and younger birds as well as nursing mothers have special nutritional requirements and may require a specially formulated pelleted diet. Consult with an animal veterinarian regarding these specific circumstances.
In addition to a balanced pelleted diet, offer your pet fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains daily. Wash all food items thoroughly to avoid toxins and cut it into smaller pieces that are appropriate for the bird's size. Do not feed avocadoes because they are known to cause toxicity. Avoid feeding your bird raw meat, eggs, or dairy products because they can cause illness.
Regular misting or showering can help your bird maintain soft, healthy skin and plumage. It's common for pets to enjoy being sprayed, however it is important to not soak them or get excessive moisture on the feathers or the skin.
After a meal is a good time to bathe a macaw. This helps prevent an unclean environment and allows the owner to inspect for any parasites or dietary issues. The bird will then be toweled dry before it is returned to its cage.
Large macaws require a large cage, with ideally the largest and most spacious perch area for resting and stretching its wings. It should be located away from direct sunlight, heat or cooling sources, and out of the drafts. It is recommended to cover it if needed to keep predators out. A macaw's cage should be at least 3 feet wide, 2.5 feet deep and 6 feet tall to allow the bird ample room to move and stretch its wings.
You can also learn how to take care of yourself.
Macaws require daily interaction with their flock. They may be destructive and fearful if they are left in a secluded area for long periods of time (while the people they reside with are working). They may also develop a strong relationship with one person, which, if not dealt with quickly, can become a case of feather picking. Feather picking is a serious problem with these birds and is difficult to stop without the help of an avian behaviorist or a veterinarian for any potential medical issues.
These curious and intelligent parrots are awed by puzzle toys and need to be kept occupied. These birds are entertained by interlocking toys, parrots' puzzles and other toys that simulate preening. They also require access to fresh water and should be misted frequently to maintain a healthy skin and plumage.
Keep your bird away from open flames, drafts and harmful substances. Macaws should not be kept in kitchens due to the risks they could be exposed to. This includes cookware that is non-stick and paint, household cleaners, and perfumed products like air fresheners. Avoid houseplants, certain metals such as zinc and costume jewelry.
The bird is an excellent climber and deserves plenty of opportunities for exercise and enrichment. It will appreciate perch stand and play gyms that have branches to hang from, as well as an expansive cage with plenty of room for toys, branches and flight. Providing these toys will keep your bird entertained and help your bird to hone its beak. A cage should be minimum of 3 feet of width, 2.5 feet in depth and 6 feet in height.
Macaws are very long-lived birds and you should be prepared for that before you get one. The average lifespan for macaws is between 70 and 80 years and some have been reported to be 100 years old!
These gorgeous birds make a great addition to any home. They can be a wonderful method to teach children about nature, and they make wonderful pets for the family. If properly taken care of and socialized, they are excellent companions for their entire lives. If you're looking to find a new family member you might consider a baby that has been raised by a human from a reputable breeder or adopting an animal from a rescue organization.