Red-fronted macaw

Ara rubrogenys

Red fronted macaws sitting on rope Image: Sian Adison 2019

Status

NE DD LC NT VU EN CR EW EX

For more info on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org

Edinburgh Zoo is home to four red-fronted macaws – Soto, Oliver, Zaelia and Esmeralda. 

You might have noticed that two of our macaws look a bit different. They have a condition called feather plucking, which affects parrots for a variety of reasons. These macaws have been with us since August 2018. Both birds are old and have been without feathers for most of their lives.

We manage the European Breeding Programme for red-fronted macaws and knew these birds had this condition. By bringing them to live with us we can provide them with a great quality of life, hopefully encouraging them to breed in the future.

Population

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Decreasing

Diet

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Herbivore

Habitat

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Rainforest

Fact file

  • This species’ original natural habitat was dry forest, but centuries of habitat destruction has caused red-fronted macaws to be found mostly in thorn and cactus scrub

  • They make loud screeching sounds but also mimic human speech

  • These powerful fliers can reach speeds of up to 40mph

Red fronted macaws sitting on rope Image: Sian Adison 2019

How we're helping

Like all the animals in our care our red-fronted macaws are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.

As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the zoo and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health, to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.

Find out more about RZSS conservation