Blue-throated Macaw aka Caninde Macaw or Wagler's
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The Blue-throated Macaw (Ara glaucogularis; previously Ara caninde) is endemic to Los Llanos de Moxosa - a small area of north-central Bolivia.
It is estimated that only about 120 of these magnificent birds remain in the wild. Due to trapping for the pet trade they are considered critically endangered.
Several breeding and conservation schemes are currently being implemented. Fortunately, this species is relatively easy to breed in captivity.
Blue Throated Macaws (Caninde Macaw)
(Ara glaucogularis)
November 2002 Issue of Bird Talk
Reprinted with Permission by Shelly Bohannon
Best pet qualities
Shelly Bohannon, owner and operator of Avian Antics Aviary related, “A properly raised and socialized blue-throated macaw (BTM) is generally a friendly, outgoing and cuddly companion. In some respects, their personalities are much like cockatoos, in that they will seek attention and can easily become ‘Velcro” birds.
My own BTM will literally spend hours lying on her back in my lap, or snuggled against my neck while I watch television or work at the computer. Reports from owner’s of babies I have raised, tell me much the same. I find the BTM to be somewhat more affectionate and of a considerably more cuddly nature than many of the large macaws. BTM’s are very active, athletic, mischievous, playful and silly. They are an extremely fun although challenging companion.
Biggest behavioral challenges
Bohannon added, “BTMs have a passion for anything mechanical and will literally remove switch plates, thermostat covers and disassemble anything they can get their beaks on. Thus, they must never be let out of their cages unattended.
Not to be overlooked and certainly worth mentioning is the BTMs tendency to be rather jealous and often a bit of a bully. Not so much toward people but other birds that are seeking their favored person’s attention. Supervision and a watchful eye are highly recommended in a multiple bird household.”
Particular dietary needs
Bohannon continued, “The BTMs beak design is quite different than that of other macaws, and this has led to a number of theories about dietary requirements. The most popular being that the blue throat’s beak is designed much like that of a fruit eater. There is nothing scientific to support this, as their diet in the wild seems to be quite similar to most other macaws of the Ara family. However, I make it a practice that all blue throats [that I raise] have fruit included in their diet daily. Otherwise, a high-quality, varied diet of pellets, sprouted seed/legumes, fresh vegetables, high-quality nuts and healthy people food seems to serve them well.”
“As with all macaws, they do require a diet a bit higher in fat than many bird species. Pellets formulated for macaws as well as high-quality nuts will provide the necessary fat”
Care concerns
“Probably the biggest and most important thing in keeping a BTM is keeping it contained,” Bohannon said. “A large majority of them are excellent mechanics, and it is difficult to find a cage they cannot open and/or literally take apart. Toys and perches will often end up on the floor of the cage, and (to blue throats) quick links are a mere annoyance. They will have a quick link open in a matter of seconds.”
What potential owners should know
“There are, of course, exceptions as with all exotic birds,” Bohannon mentioned. “However, if you are going to be owned by a blue throat, be aware that they are escape artists. They can be very manipulative and are extremely destructive. Be prepared to spend a small fortune on toy sand never, ever let them outside of their cage unattended, or you may find your home falling down around you.”
Article Courtesy of:
If you are considering one of these magnificent parrots as pets, please visit the following websites for information:
- Macaw General Information
- Procuring your Parrot
- Do you breed this species and would like to be listed here? Click here to see your options.
- The 3 Key Elements to Keep Your Pet Bird Happy & Healthy
- Housing Your Bird
- Bird Nutrition
- Parrot Products
Weight: 600 - 800 g 
Length: 24 -29 inches Wingspan: 36 -40 inches (85 cm)
Genus: Scientific: Ara ... English: Macaws ... Dutch: Echte Aras ... German: Eigentliche Aras ... French: Aras Species: Scientific: Ara glaucogularis aka Ara caninde ... English: Caninde Ara, Blue-throated Macaw ... Dutch: Blauwkeelara, Caninde Ara ... German: Blaulatzara, Blaukehlara, Caninde Ara ... French: Ara de Caninde
CITES I - Protected Species
Distribution: Bolivia, Paraguay, Northern Argentina
Related Websites: Lexicon of Parrots
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