Military Macaw

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• GroomingRegular feather care

  Regular bathing or misting plus nail and beak checks.

• Living spaceLarge cage or aviary

  Best with a large cage or an indoor aviary.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment40–60 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Feather plucking · Respiratory issues · Obesity

The Military Macaw (Ara militaris) comes from dry forest and canyon country from Mexico down to Argentina, and takes its name from the green that reminded early describers of a uniform. At around a kilogram it is a genuinely large macaw, listed as vulnerable in the wild and protected under CITES Appendix I, so a legal bird will come with paperwork; buy only from a breeder who can produce it. Militaries are curious, bold and busy, with a reputation for being more independent and less cuddly than a Green-winged. They bond strongly, often to one person, and can become territorial around their cage during breeding season, which is why early socialisation to several handlers is worth the effort. They are among the louder macaws and vocalise reliably at dawn and dusk. Housing means a large aviary or a room-sized enclosure with hardwood perches, and hours of supervised time out every day. Feed a pellet base with generous fresh vegetables and dark leafy greens, a modest daily allowance of nuts, and no avocado, chocolate, caffeine or salt, all of which are toxic to parrots. Rotate destructible foraging toys constantly. The problems that end up in avian clinics with this species are almost all behavioural in origin: screaming, biting and feather destruction in birds kept alone in too small a space. Provide enrichment, company and an annual avian vet check, and a Military Macaw is a decades-long companion.

• How much activity does a Military Macaw need?

  High. Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• How much feather care does a Military Macaw need?

  Regular feather care. Regular bathing or misting plus nail and beak checks.

• What cage does a Military Macaw need?

  Large cage or aviary. Best with a large cage or an indoor aviary.

• Is a Military Macaw a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Military Macaw live?

  40–60 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Military Macaw?

  Keep an eye out for Feather plucking, Respiratory issues, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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