A macaw (guaruba guarouba) is an emblematic, large, predominantly yellow parrot endemic to the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest. Its Brazilian and indigenous name, 'Ararajuba', means 'yellow macaw' and, recently, data genetic studies showed that these animals are more closely related to the scarlet macaw than to the Parrots.
The species occurs mainly in forested areas in southeastern Amazonas, western Maranhão and northeastern Pará. These birds are extremely social, even during the breeding season.
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These birds roost in small groups of up to 20 individuals and reside within cavities of tall, isolated trees. They also use these same cavities as nests. Little is known about the mating system of this animal.
It is a medium-sized parrot, with a length of 34 to 36 cm. The tail is slightly shorter than the body length and is graduated. The plumage is dominated by yellow.
In nature, macaws have a varied diet, feeding on fruits such as mango, murici and açaí. They also eat flowers, buds and seeds.
After the macaw reaches sexual maturity, at three years old, the breeding season begins in November and lasts until February. They use tall trees and usually lay up to four eggs, which are constantly protected.
The hatchling period is 30 days. The male and female take turns incubating. As they live in a flock, the birds take care of their chicks together with other members of the group. This reinforced his reputation for being extremely sociable with his peers.
Its habitat has been destroyed by human activities in recent decades and illegal trade has continually impacted its small population, estimated in the wild at 2,500 individuals. Due to its colors, status and habits, the macaw is very desirable as a pet.
