The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is one of the most iconic and visually striking parrots in the world, instantly recognizable by its vivid red, yellow, and blue plumage. Native to the rainforests of Central and South America, the Scarlet Macaw is celebrated for its intelligence, strong personality, and stunning beauty.
Scarlet Macaws are known for being bold, social, and intelligent companions, but they require experienced owners ready to commit to their care for decades.
Scarlet Macaw Characteristics
Size: 32–36 inches (81–91 cm) in length, including long tail feathers.
Weight: 900–1,200 grams.
Lifespan: 40–70+ years with excellent care.
Color: Vibrant scarlet red body with yellow and blue wings and tail feathers; white facial skin with tiny feather lines.
Temperament: Intelligent, curious, social, and sometimes strong-willed.
Scarlet Macaw Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Scarlet Macaws are highly intelligent, social, and active parrots that form strong bonds with their human family. They enjoy playing, climbing, learning tricks, and vocalizing — but they can be loud and sometimes mischievous.
They tend to be more assertive and stubborn than Green-winged Macaws, requiring confident, patient owners who understand positive reinforcement and consistent socialization.
Without daily mental stimulation and interaction, Scarlet Macaws can develop behavioral issues like feather plucking or destructive chewing.
Diet and Feeding
A healthy Scarlet Macaw diet should be varied and balanced:
Pellets: A high-quality pellet mix should be the diet’s staple.
Fresh vegetables: Leafy greens, peppers, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli.
Fruits (limited amounts): Apples, mango, berries, papaya, melon.
Nuts: A good source of healthy fats and mental stimulation (in moderation).
Clean, fresh water daily.
Never feed avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, or salty/sugary processed foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: A very large cage or aviary is required; minimum 36” x 48” x 60” with 1–1.5 inch bar spacing.
- Exercise: 4–6 hours of supervised out-of-cage activity daily to stay fit and entertained.
- Enrichment: Foraging toys, puzzle feeders, ropes, ladders, swings, and lots of chew toys.
- Socialization: Daily interaction and training to strengthen trust and prevent boredom.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and bathing or misting to maintain feather health.
- Vet care: Annual avian vet check-ups to monitor health and nutrition.
Common Health Problems
Scarlet Macaws can be prone to:
- Feather plucking: Often linked to boredom, stress, or lack of attention.
- Obesity or fatty liver disease: If diet is unbalanced or exercise is insufficient.
- Respiratory infections: Due to poor air quality or drafts.
- Psittacosis: A bacterial infection transmissible to humans.
Monitor your parrot for changes in droppings, appetite, activity, and feather condition — and consult an avian vet if issues arise.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $2,500–$5,000 USD depending on age, breeder quality, and socialization level.
- Where to buy:
- Trusted, ethical breeders who hand-raise Scarlet Macaws with proper socialization.
- Specialized avian stores with clear health certifications.
- Reputable parrot rescues and adoption organizations.
Scarlet Macaws require a lifelong commitment due to their long lifespan and complex care needs.
Are Scarlet Macaws Good Pets?
Scarlet Macaws can be wonderful pets for experienced owners ready to meet their high social, mental, and space needs.
They are intelligent, affectionate, and incredibly entertaining.
Their size, noise level, and assertive personality make them best suited for owners ready to dedicate time and patience to training and enrichment.
Conservation Note
The Scarlet Macaw is listed under CITES Appendix I in many regions due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Always choose captive-bred birds from reputable breeders or adopt from rescue centers to support ethical ownership and conservation efforts.