Red-and-green Macaw

Overview

The red-and-green macaw, also known as the green-winged macaw, is a large, mostly red parrot of the genus Ara. It is the largest species within the genus Ara and the second largest of all macaws, surpassed in size only by the hyacinth macaw.

Identification

• Bright red breast with upper-wing covert feathers that are mostly green, distinguishing it from the scarlet macaw.
• Characteristic red lines encircle the eyes, formed by rows of tiny feathers on bare white skin patches.
• Total body length ranges from 90 to 95 cm, making it visibly larger than the scarlet macaw when seen together.
• Tail feathers feature iridescent teal surrounded by red.

Habitat

Widespread in the forests and woodlands of northern and central South America. The historical range included parts of Argentina, though the species is currently listed as critically endangered there.

Did you know?

Feathers from this species were found in a Yschma tomb near Pachacamac, demonstrating cross-Andes trade between approximately 1000 and 1470 CE.