The Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw, also known as the Cɑnɪnde Mɑcɑw or Wɑgleɾ’s Mɑcɑw, is a captivating and rare species of mɑcɑw renowned for its dazzling array of colors. Its upperparts are adorned in a splendid turquoise-blue hue, while the crown appears slightly duller, and the rump shines brighter. The bird’s face is embellished with a bare facial patch intricately hidden by blue feather-lines that blend into a blue lower cheek and throat. This distinct facial feature is separated from its crown by a narrow yellow stripe, and the base of its large, black bill boasts bare pink skin. Remarkably, each Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw bears a unique sparsely feathered patch of skin near the base of its dark-colored bill, allowing for individual identification of adults.
As the Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw ages, its eye color evolves. Nestlings have black irises, which change to brown soon after their eyes open. Between one and three years old, the eyes turn grey and later transform to white. After reaching the age of 10 years, the iris adopts a vibrant yellow hue, with the amount of gold increasing over time. In the case of elderly macaws, a ring of dark grey develops around the pupil as the iris becomes thinner, revealing the back of the retina.
These beautiful birds are endemic to a small region in north-central Bolivia, known as Los Llɑnos de Moxos. Recognized as a natural heritage of Bolivia, locally known as “bɑɾbɑ ɑzᴜll” meaning ‘blue beard’ in Spanish, the Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw is protected by law.
However, this stunning bird has faced challenges in recent times. Its population has been critically endangered due to human-induced threats, including hunting and habitat destruction. As grasslands are impacted by grazing, the Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw has been forced into smaller and smaller areas, leading to highly localized breeding and foraging locales.
Nonetheless, dedicated conservation efforts and the establishment of breeding and conservation schemes in zoos have been initiated to save this remarkable species. The incorporation of hard metal spikes into their nests has allowed them to adapt remarkably to their environment, providing structural support and nest defense, making their homes almost fortress-like.
The Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw’s dietary preference also sets it apart from many other macaw species. Unlike its counterparts, it does not heavily rely on seeds and nuts. Instead, its primary food source consists of fruit from large palms. These intelligent birds exhibit interesting feeding behavior, savoring the nutritious part of ripe and nearly ripe fruit, and even drinking the liquid from very immature fruit. Their specialized diet primarily composed of fruit from large palms has enabled them to adapt to their unique habitat in Bolivia’s Los Llɑnos de Moxos region, emphasizing its importance for their survival and well-being.
Social and highly communicative, the Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑws are often seen in pairs or small groups, roosting together. They display impressive flying and climbing abilities, contributing to their fascinating behavior. When tamed, they can be affectionate and intelligent pet companions, requiring regular social interaction and mental stimulation to remain healthy.
Overall, the Blᴜe-thɾoɑted Mɑcɑw stands as a symbol of natural beauty and resilience, while also reminding us of the importance of conservation efforts to protect these majestic creatures and preserve the biodiversity of our planet.
