Military Macaw

Ara militaris

Guacamaya Verde

Song

Military Macaw

Appearance: Military Macaws are medium to large parrots, measuring about 70 to 80 cm (27 to 31 in) in length. They have green plumage, which helps them blend into their forest habitats. Their wings and tail feathers have blue and red markings, and they have a distinctive red forehead. They possess a strong, curved beak that is adapted for cracking nuts and seeds. Their eyes are surrounded by a patch of bare, white skin.

Habitat: Military Macaws are found in a variety of forested habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and savannas. They prefer areas with large trees that provide nesting sites and food sources. They inhabit regions such as the Andes and adjacent lowlands.

Behavior: These macaws are highly social birds, often seen in pairs or small flocks. They communicate with loud, raucous calls and are known for their playful and curious nature. Their diet consists of seeds, nuts, fruits, and berries. They forage in the forest canopy but may also descend to the ground for food. Military Macaws are strong fliers, capable of covering long distances in search of food and nesting sites.

Breeding: They nest in tree cavities or cliff faces, where they lay 2 to 3 eggs. The nesting sites are often reused for several years. The breeding season varies depending on the location, but in Colombia, it occurs during the dry season. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.

Conservation Status: The IUCN lists the Military Macaw as Vulnerable.

Distribution

The Military Macaw inhabits in tropical and subtropical forests, particularly in areas with rugged terrain and cliffs which are ideal for nesting.

The Military Macaw is found in the Andean region, particularly in the inter-Andean valleys and mountainous areas. This includes regions in the departments of Putumayo, Huila, Antioquia, Bolívar, and Magdalena.

Taxonomy

The Military Macaw (Ara militaris)

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves (Birds)
Order: Psittaciformes
Family: Psittacidae
Genus: Ara
Species: Ara militaris

Vocalization

Communication: Military Macaws are highly social that use vocalizations to communicate with each other. Their calls help maintain group cohesion when flying or foraging.

Variety of Sounds: They produce sounds like loud squawks, screeches, and softer chattering noises.

Mimicry: They have the ability to mimic sounds and human speech, although they are not as renowned for this ability as some other parrot species.

Territorial Calls: Vocalizations serve as territorial markers, warning birds to stay away from their nesting or feeding areas.

Ecosystem Role: As seed dispersers, they help maintain the health of tropical forests by spreading seeds from the fruits they consume.

Social Structure: These macaws often live in flocks, which provides protection from predators and increases foraging efficiency.

Breeding: Vocal communication is crucial during the breeding season.