bird of the day: spix’s macaw

the spix’s macaw, also known as the little blue macaw, is a small macaw native to brazil.

little is known about the spix’s macaw in the wild – most studies have been done on captive birds. however, it is known that wild birds feed off of fruits, nuts, and seeds.

spix’s macaws choose their mates independently – if they are put with another macaw, they may accept or reject them, regardless of whether or not they are ready to breed. both males and females of this species share the same coloration, though males are slightly larger.

spix’s macaws make their nests in the hollows of trees. their young fledge at 70 days, and are fully independent at around 100 days of age.

unfortunately, the spix’s macaw has been declared extinct in the wild. the main causes of their population loss are deforestation, which causes massive loss of their habitat and food sources, and introduced predators. there is around 200 birds in captivity, and hopes to reintroduce some birds into the wild by 2020.

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