Blue-throated macaw

Scientific name: Ara glaucogularis

IUCN listed as: Critically Endangered

Learn before you visit!

Here are some facts about the species – Discover what they eat, find out about their natural habitat, see what they like to do, and more… Set the reading style to suit you too, everyday speak or something aimed towards children.

Child-friendly

Everyday

Diet

Blue-throated Macaws primarily feed on a diet of palm nuts, seeds, fruits, and berries found in their native habitat of the palm savannahs and gallery forests of Bolivia. They have strong beaks that help them crack open tough nuts and seeds. In captivity, they are provided with a variety of nuts, fruits, and vegetables to ensure a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

Blue-throated Macaws love eating palm nuts, seeds, fruits, and berries they find in forests. They have strong beaks to crack open tough nuts and seeds. When they’re kept as pets, they eat nuts, fruits, and veggies to stay healthy. These macaws help plants grow by spreading seeds.

Breeding

Blue-throated Macaws form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They nest in tree cavities, where the female lays 2 to 3 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for about 24 to 28 days. After hatching, the chicks are cared for by both parents and fledge from the nest after about 11 to 12 weeks.

When Blue-throated Macaws want babies, they find a safe tree hole to build a nest together. Mum lays 2 to 3 eggs, and both parents take turns keeping them warm for about 24 to 28 days. Baby birds are fed by their parents until they leave the nest at 11 to 12 weeks old.

Habitat

Blue-throated Macaws are endemic to a small region in northern Bolivia, where they inhabit palm savannahs and gallery forests near rivers and streams. They rely on palm trees for nesting and feeding, and the availability of these specific habitats is crucial for their survival. Habitat loss due to agriculture and development is a major threat to their population.

Blue-throated Macaws come from northern Bolivia, where they live in forests with palm trees near rivers. They need these trees for nesting and food. These clever birds can live near farms and in cities if there are palm trees and food.

At the zoo

In zoos, Blue-throated Macaws are housed in large aviaries designed to mimic their natural habitat. They are fed a diet similar to what they eat in the wild, including palm nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Zoos also participate in breeding programmes to help conserve these macaws and educate visitors about their plight in the wild. Enrichment activities, such as puzzle feeders and perches, are provided to keep them mentally stimulated.

In zoos, Blue-throated Macaws live in big cages that look like their forest homes. They eat nuts, seeds, fruits, and veggies like they do in the wild. Zoos help them have babies and give them toys and puzzles to play with.

Behaviour

Blue-throated Macaws are social birds that live in small flocks or pairs. They communicate with each other using loud calls and squawks, especially during flight and when defending their territory. These macaws are known for their agility in flight, often performing acrobatic manoeuvres in the sky. They are active during the day, spending their time foraging for food and socialising with other macaws.

Blue-throated Macaws like being with other birds, in pairs or small groups. They talk with loud calls and squawks. They’re nimble and love flying, doing tricks in the air. These birds are busy during the day, looking for food and chatting with their friends.

Fun facts

  • Colourful Feathers: Blue-throated Macaws have stunning blue feathers on their throats, which give them their name.
  • Rare Sight: They are one of the rarest macaw species in the world, with only a few hundred individuals left in the wild.
  • Strong Beaks: Their beaks are strong enough to crack open tough palm nuts.
  • Home Builders: They make their homes in holes in trees, where they sleep and raise their babies.
  • Sky Dancers: Blue-throated Macaws are excellent flyers and can do impressive tricks in the sky.
  • Colourful Feathers: Blue-throated Macaws have amazing blue feathers on their throats, which make them look special.
  • Rare Birds: There aren’t many Blue-throated Macaws left in the world, so seeing one is really special.
  • Big Beaks: Their beaks are really strong and can crack open even the hardest nuts.
  • Home Experts: They live in holes in trees, where they sleep and take care of their babies.
  • Flying Stars: Blue-throated Macaws are great at flying and can do awesome tricks in the air.

More animals to discover at our zoo

Quick Links

Book Ahead

Tickets & Prices

You can buy tickets for Exmoor Zoo securely online, as well as finding out more price options, discover offers, and more…

Events & Experiences

What’s on…

Exmoor Zoo hosts incredible Events all through the year. You can find out about what we’ve got in store here…

Finding Exmoor Zoo

Routes & info

Like any great discovery, Exmoor Zoo can feel a little off the beaten path – but don’t worry – you can plan your journey with our recommended routes and other useful travel info.