Also known as the Buffon’s macaw, it is indeed a sight to behold with its vibrant plumage and majestic presence. Found in the lush forests of Central and South America, this magnificent bird is revered for its stunning emerald-green feathers adorned with accents of sapphire and ruby, creating a breathtaking display of colors against the verdant backdrop of its habitat.

Beyond its dazzling appearance, the Great green macaw plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a seed disperser. With its strong, curved beak, it adeptly cracks open nuts and seeds, contributing to the germination and growth of various plant species in the forest. Its diet primarily consists of a variety of fruits and nuts, which it harvests from the canopy of tall trees, where it spends much of its time foraging and socializing with its flock mates.

Despite its cheerful demeanor and melodious calls that resonate through the forest canopy, the Great green macaw faces numerous challenges to its survival. Habitat loss due to deforestation and logging poses a significant threat to its existence, as large swathes of its natural habitat are cleared for agriculture and urban development. Additionally, the illegal pet trade continues to impact wild populations, as these charismatic birds are sought after for their beauty and intelligence.

The population of the Great green macaw worldwide remains between 500 and 1000 individuals, despite the success of conservation projects that aim to educate people and release these birds into the wild. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, it is classified as a “vulnerable species” in the 2002 Red List of birds of Colombia.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Colombia

2020

Costa Rica

<200

Official estimate

CR

2020

Ecuador

50-70

Official estimate

CR

2020

Honduras

400

Official estimate

CR

2020

Nicaragua

<200

Official estimate

CR

2020

Panama

2020