fearcave1

Glaucous Macaw The glaucous macaw is considered to be one of the rarest birds in the world. It is Critically Endangered and could be extinct in the wild. The bird has been reported by aviculturists across the globe However, the most recent sighting was recorded in 1992. The reported sighting was in the southwestern region of Paraguay close to the city of Corrientes. The bird was male. Origin The Glaucous Macaw is a bird native to South America. It is endangered. This magnificent bird has a distinctive blue feather pattern as well as a powerful beak that is capable of breaking open tough nuts and seeds. Glaucous macaws are known to form long-term monogamous pairs and both parents help raise the chicks. The chicks are fed regurgitated food during the first few weeks of life before being fed solid food as the chicks develop. Parents are also responsible for teaching the young macaws to fly and hunt. The glaucous Macaw has gone extinct, but rumors about its existence continue to circulate across the globe. It is estimated that the glaucous macaw extinct in the 1800s because of cattle grazing and logging in yatay palm (Butia yatay) trees, where these birds typically gathered their food. The glaucous Macaw is believed to have returned, and is often kept with its larger cousin, Lear's macaw. The glaucous Macaw can be found in sub-tropical rainforests in South America. They are most often found in areas that have plenty of palm trees, and are thought to be extremely adaptable to different types of forested habitats. These beautiful birds are known to be extremely territorial and will defend their nesting and feeding areas from invaders. There have been a lot of reports about the glaucous macaw throughout the years, but many are considered to be not reliable. The most recent report of a wild occurrence involves an avicultural acquaintance of Ridgely's who claimed to have observed four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This is a ridiculous claim until it is supported with evidence. Many experts have concluded that the bird is likely to be extinct since there are no records from the last century. However they have always been willing to accept a slim chance of its survival. If it is able to survive it will be very rare to see large numbers. Habitat The Glaucous Macaw is a stunning bird, well-known for its huge size and turquoise-blue coloration. Its long tail and wings accentuate its graceful and agile movements. This bird is a symbol of loyalty and love. Its beak, which is predominantly black, has a distinctive shape that allows it crack seeds and nuts. They are a significant part its diet. IUCN has classified the Glaucous Macaw as Critically Endangered. It notes that there is only a tiny population of this bird and it is at the risk of becoming extinct. This species was once widespread however, it is now found in northern Argentina south Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay, as well as Brazil from Parana state to south, where it nests in cliffs alongside major rivers. Although there haven't been any credible sightings of the species since 1830, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be very rare in its comparatively small range; specimens were collected from 1830 to 1860 (in Corrientes). The last living Glaucous Macaw, believed to be from Brazil was seen in the Buenos Aires Zoo back in 1936. A reassessment of the historical records suggests that this species was very generalist in its preferences for habitat, with a preference for areas of savanna that were interspersed with palm “islands” and areas of riparian forest along rivers. It was a particular in the consuming of palm fruit especially those of the yatay (or chatay) palm (Butia). However, it also ate ripe and unripe fruits and berries, nuts, and vegetable matter. It nests on steep slopes on cliffs, in cliffs, and occasionally in tree cavities. As with other parrots this bird was social and likely to be sociable. It was able to live up to 14.8 years in captivity. It was said to be a reliable breeder, reproducing year after year. In the wild, the lifespan was probably between 50 and 80 years. This species was a potent seed disperser, and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its native habitats. Feeding The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most beautiful parrots. The presence of this parrot has an enormous impact on the environment. This huge South American bird is known for its vibrant blue feathers and eyes that are yellow, as well as the distinctive teardrop-shaped lappet which adorns the lower part of its beak. Up until recently, very little was known about feeding habits of the Glaucous Macaw. The earliest detailed references I have found are in two publications by H.W. Bates, “The Naturalist on the Amazons” first published in 1863 on his 11-year stay in Brazil and later in his book “As Birds of the Brazilian Forests”. Both are about the Hyacinthine Macaw Anodorhynchus Aureolarius. There is no reason to believe that they do not apply to this species. The Glaucous macaw is believed to be a specialist eater, consuming only palm nuts, but also small amounts of other seeds, fruits and vegetable matter. This species' diet was likely affected by the clearing of forests for agriculture and cattle-ranching by early colonists, as well the felling of yatay (Butia) palms from which it got a large portion of its nutrition. In the wild, it was common to see the Glaucous macaw in subtropical forests and savannahs in which palm trees were present. It nestled in tree cavities or on rocky banks and palm fronds. On average two clutches of eggs was laid and incubated by the female. The young Glaucous Macaws rely on their parents for care until they can fly and are fully grown. Both males and females are committed to their offspring and will hunt for food and protect them from predators. Unfortunately the Glaucous Macaw has been eradicated from most of its former range. The disappearance of this magnificent bird is probably due to the continued trapping for the pet trade, as well as habitat disturbance, particularly the wholesale clearing of yatay palms from where it could have gotten its primary food source. The Glaucous Macaw is listed as Critically Endangered. Breeding Glaucous macaws are typically monogamous pairs with both parents taking part in raising the young. They breed during the dry season, when food is most abundant. The female lays a clutch of two to three eggs, which are incubated for about 28 days. Once the chicks hatch, they are fed by their parents through regurgitation for the first few weeks of their lives. The young macaws then begin to explore their surroundings and learn to eat themselves. severe macaw are also taught to fly and forage. The glaucous Macaw can be described as a very social bird. They are active during the day but spend their nights resting. They will often seek shelter in tree cavities or other suitable nesting sites for the night. Their calls can be heard in the forest throughout the day. While it is believed that the species will recover from its decline in the wild, the bird faces many threats, including loss of habitat and illegal trapping for pet trade, and deforestation. About 20 glaucous macaws are estimated to be living in the wild. The IUCN has classified the bird as “Critically endangered, possibly extinct.” The glaucous macaw is known as the Lear's macaw or blue-throated hummingbird. It is distinguished by its bright blue feathers. The parrot is 70 centimeters long and has an impressive beak that is capable of cracking open seeds and nuts. This beautiful bird is native to South America, and it is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, dry lowland and wetland. This majestic bird is a sign of South American biodiversity. Its appearance is elegant with its slender body, vibrant blue feathers, and lightweight build. The black and curly beak makes it easier to crack open seeds and nuts, which make up a significant part of its diet. It is a stunning bird that is often seen in bird shows. It is also popular in captivity where it can live a lifetime.