The Military Macaw (Ara militaris) is a large, strikingly green parrot known for its intelligence, social nature, and engaging personality. Native to Mexico and parts of Central and South America, this macaw gets its name from its bright green plumage resembling a military uniform.
Military Macaws are admired for their curiosity, gentle demeanor, and ability to bond closely with their owners, making them a popular choice among experienced parrot keepers.
Military Macaw Characteristics
Size: 27–30 inches (68–76 cm) in length, including tail.
Weight: 900–1,100 grams.
Lifespan: 50–60+ years with proper care.
Color: Bright green body, blue flight feathers, red forehead, and bare facial skin lined with black feathers.
Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, social, and curious.
Military Macaw Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Military Macaws are social, intelligent, and affectionate parrots that thrive on daily interaction and mental stimulation. They are playful and curious, often enjoying puzzle toys, learning tricks, and foraging activities.
Compared to some larger macaws, Military Macaws can be less prone to screaming, but they still have a loud call, particularly during morning and evening hours.
Without sufficient enrichment and social time, they may develop behavioral problems like feather plucking or excessive vocalization
Diet and Feeding
A balanced, varied diet is essential for Military Macaw health:
Pellets: Should form the foundation of their diet.
Fresh vegetables: Leafy greens, bell peppers, carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes.
Fruits (in moderation): Apples, berries, mango, papaya.
Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, and other nuts for healthy fats and beak exercise (in moderation).
Clean, fresh water daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and salty or sugary foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Large cage or indoor aviary required; minimum 36” x 48” x 60” with 1–1.5 inch bar spacing.
- Exercise: At least 4 hours of supervised out-of-cage activity daily for mental and physical health.
- Enrichment: Chewable toys, ropes, ladders, puzzle feeders, and regular training sessions.
- Socialization: Daily interaction is critical to prevent boredom and build trust.
- Hygiene: Regular cleaning and opportunities for bathing or misting to maintain feather health.
- Veterinary care: Annual avian vet check-ups for preventative care and diet assessment.
Common Health Problems
Military Macaws may face:
- Feather plucking: From boredom, stress, or nutritional deficiencies.
- Obesity: If diet is unbalanced and activity is limited.
- Respiratory issues: From poor ventilation or dusty environments.
- Psittacosis: A bacterial infection transmissible to humans.
Monitor for behavioral changes, appetite loss, or feather condition changes and seek avian vet care when needed.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $2,500–$4,500 USD depending on age, breeder reputation, and region.
- Where to buy:
- Ethical breeders specializing in hand-raised macaws.
- Reputable avian specialty stores with clear health records.
- Parrot rescues and adoption organizations.
Military Macaws require lifelong commitment due to their lifespan, size, and social needs.
Are Military Macaws Good Pets?
Military Macaws can be excellent companions for experienced bird owners ready to provide daily enrichment, social interaction, and a spacious environment.
They are intelligent, affectionate, and trainable, with a strong ability to bond with their owners.
However, they require patience, consistent handling, and noise tolerance due to their vocal nature.
Conservation Note
Military Macaws are listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade in many regions. Always acquire your Military Macaw from ethical, captive-bred sources or consider adopting from rescue organizations to support conservation.