A Rewind What People Talked About Glaucous Macaw 20 Years Ago
Glaucous MacawThe glaucous Macaw is one the rarest birds in the world. It is Critically Endangered and could become extinct in the wild.
Many birdwatchers have reported sightings this bird however the most recent sighting was in 1992. The reported sighting was in southwestern Paraguay, near the city of Corrientes. The bird was male.
Origin
The Glaucous macaw is a threatened parrot species that is native South America. This magnificent bird features a unique blue feather pattern and powerful beak capable of breaking open hard seeds and nuts. Glaucous macaws have been known to form long-term monogamous families and both parents assist in raising the chicks. The chicks are fed regular food during the first few weeks of life before being fed solid food as they grow. Parents are also responsible for teaching young macaws to fly and hunt.
The glaucous Macaw has gone extinct, but rumors about its existence continue to spread around the world. The Glaucous Macaw is believed have been extinct in the 1800s due to the logging industry and cattle grazing in yatay (Butia) palm groves, where the birds would gather their food. The glaucous Macaw is believed to have returned, and is often kept with its larger relative, Lear’s macaw.
In terms of habitat the glaucous macaw can be found in sub-tropical forests of South America. They are most often located in areas with a lot of palm trees, and they are believed to be extremely adaptable to different types of forested habitats. These beautiful birds are territorial and defend the nesting and feeding area from intruders.
In the past, there have been a variety of reports of the glaucous macaw however they are generally not considered reliable. The most recent claim of a wild event is an friend of Ridgely's who claimed to have observed four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This is a ridiculous claim until it is substantiated with evidence. The absence of any credible data on this bird over the past century has been a reason for many experts to think that it's likely extinct, but they have always been willing to accept a remote possibility of its survival (Vielliard 1979, Ridgely 1981a, Sick 1985, Chebez 1986a). If it survives it is highly unlikely to reach large numbers.
Habitat
The macaw with the glaucous is a striking bird, renowned for its large size and striking turquoise-blue coloration. Its wings and tail feathers are long, which enhances its fluid and graceful movements. It is also a symbol of loyalty and love. Its beak is predominantly black and is distinctive in its shape. It allows it to open seeds and nuts, which comprise a large portion of its diet.
The Glaucous Macaw is considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN and the IUCN states that it has a small population and is at a significant risk of extinction. This species was formerly relatively widespread, but it is only found in northern Argentina and southern Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state southwards. It was a nesting place in cliffs along major rivers.
Although there haven't been any reliable sightings of this species since 1830, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be extremely rare within its comparatively small range; specimens were taken from 1830 to 1850 (in Corrientes). The last known living Glaucous Macaw was exhibited at the Buenos Aires Zoo in 1936 and is believed to be from Brazil.
A re-examination of the historical documents suggests that this species was very generalist in its habitat preferences, with a preference for the savanna ecosystem, which was interspersed with palm "islands" and areas of riparian forest along rivers. It was a particular for the consumption of palm fruits especially those of the yatay (or chatay) palm (Butia). However, it also ate ripe or unripe fruits, nuts, berries, and even vegetable matter. It is a nesting place on steep slopes on cliffs, in cliffs, and occasionally in tree cavities.
This bird was likely to be gregarious and social, like other parrots. It was said that it could live to 14.4 years in captivity and was a reliable breeder who reproduced year after year. Its life expectancy in the wild was perhaps about 50 to 80 years. This species was a powerful disperser of seeds, and could have contributed towards the success of the palm yatay species in its natural habitats.
Feeding
The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most stunning parrots. Its presence can have an enormous influence on the surrounding. This massive South American parrot is known for its bright blue feathers, yellow eyes, and the teardrop-shaped lipped on the click here lower part its beak.
Until recently very little was known about the eating habits of the Glaucous Macaw. The first detailed references I have come across are two works by H.W. Bates, "The Naturalist on the Amazons" first published in 1863 on his 11 year stay in Brazil and later in his work "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests". Both of these refer to the Hyacinthine Macaw (Anodorhynchus aureolarius) however I see no reason to believe that they are not applicable to this species.
It is likely that the Glaucous Macaw was a particular in the consumption of palm nuts, and also took other seeds, fruits, and vegetable matter in small amounts. The diet of this species was likely heavily influenced by the clearing of forests for farming and cattle-ranching by early colonists, as well the removal of yatay (Butia) palms from which it derived a lot of its nutrition.
In the wild the Glaucous Macaw was often found in subtropical forests containing cliffs and savannahs with palm trees, where it nestled in tree cavities and on rocky banks or the top of palm fronds. On average two eggs were laid in a clutch. eggs was laid and incubated by the female.
The young Glaucous Macaws rely on their parents for their care until they can fly and fully fledged. Both the male and female are extremely dedicated to their offspring and will tirelessly hunt for food and protect them from predators.
Unfortunately the Glaucous Macaw has been eradicated from its entire former range. The disappearance of this majestic bird is likely due to the ongoing trapping of pets for the pet trade and habitat disturbance, particularly the wholesale removal of yatay palms which it may have obtained its primary food source. The Glaucous Macaw is classified as Critically Endangered.
Breeding
Glaucous Macaws form monogamous long-term couples. Both parents are involved in the raising of their children. They breed in the dry season when food availability is at its highest. Females lay an egg clutch that ranges from two to three eggs, which are incubated for about 28 days. For the first few weeks after hatching the chicks are fed daily by their parents via regurgitation. The young macaws then begin to explore their surroundings and learn how to feed themselves. They are also taught how to fly and forage.
The glaucous Macaw is highly social bird. They are active during the day but are restful at night. At night, they will often seek refuge in tree cavities or other nesting areas that are suitable. They are extremely vocal and their calls can be heard throughout the forest during the day.
While it is hoped that the species will recover from its decline in the wild, the bird faces many threats, including loss of habitat, illegal trapping for the pet trade, and deforestation. It is estimated that there are less than 20 glaucous macaws living in the wild. The IUCN classifies the bird as "Critically Endangered--Possibly Extinct."
The glaucous macaw, also known as Lear's Macaw or blue-throated Hummingbird, is distinguished by its bright blue feathers. The parrot is 70 centimeters in length and has a an impressive beak that is capable of slicing open nuts and seeds. This beautiful bird is native to South America, and it can be found in many habitats, including forests, dry lowland grasslands and wetland.
This magnificent bird is a sign of South American biodiversity. It has a regal look with its slender body, vibrant blue feathers and its light build. The beak is curved and black, which aids it break open the nuts and seeds that comprise a large portion of its diet. It is a stunning bird that is often seen in bird shows. It is also a favorite in captivity, where it could remain for a long time.