The Blue and Gold Macaw, scientifically known as Ara ararauna, is a strikingly beautiful and highly intelligent parrot, making it one of the most sought-after species for aviculture. Its vibrant plumage, characterized by a blue back and wings, a golden-yellow chest, and a distinctive white facial patch edged with black feathers, is complemented by a green forehead. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these macaws are known for their playful nature and trainability. While their rarity would command a high price, they are also considered one of the easier large macaw species to breed, often making them a suitable choice for novice breeders of large parrots. Most pairs are adept at incubating eggs, raising, and feeding their young, and they can even serve as effective foster parents. A typical clutch consists of three to four eggs, and generally, all hatch, even with less experienced parents.
To successfully breed Blue and Gold Macaws, several key factors must be in place. The birds must have reached sexual maturity, be in excellent health, and consist of a bonded male and female pair. Crucially, they need to feel secure in their environment. If a pair has been housed together for two years or more without breeding, it is essential to re-evaluate the environment to ensure all these criteria are met.
These tropical birds can be bred successfully in both indoor and outdoor aviaries. For outdoor breeding, providing sheltered areas is vital to protect them from extreme heat or cold. In cooler climates, gradual acclimatization to lower temperatures is necessary. It is also important to note that macaws can suffer sunburns on their facial patches if exposed to unfiltered sunlight.
Aviary Requirements for Blue and Gold Macaws
A significant consideration for keeping and breeding these large birds is the need for ample space. Larger flights contribute to the birds’ overall health and well-being. Suspended flights are often preferred for ease of cleaning, though constructing and managing very large suspended aviaries can be challenging, and capturing the birds may become more difficult. A minimum size for a suspended breeding flight is recommended at 5 feet wide, 5 feet tall, and 8 feet long (1.5m x 1.5m x 2.4m).
Breeding pairs can exhibit aggressive behavior, making safety a paramount concern when setting up aviaries. Nest boxes should be mounted externally to the flight, with a mechanism to easily block the entrance. This allows for safe checking of eggs or chicks without the parents interfering. For most large macaw species, a nest box measuring 18 inches by 18 inches by 36 inches (45.7cm x 45.7cm x 91.4cm) is recommended. Metal nest boxes are suitable for indoor use, but adding a thick piece of wood to the front can offer a more natural appearance.
When choosing outdoor nest boxes, opt for materials with good insulating properties, such as wood, to maintain a more stable temperature year-round. Lining or covering these nest boxes with stainless steel wire can help prevent the birds from chewing through the wood or escaping, and also protect eggs and chicks from injury. The nest box should be mounted horizontally, with an entrance hole on the long side, near one end, measuring approximately 10 inches by 8 inches (25.4cm x 20.3cm) to comfortably accommodate large macaws. An inspection door, ideally around 12 inches by 7.5 inches (30.5cm x 19cm), should be placed on the opposite side, large enough for easy maneuvering of eggs and young.
Perches of varying natural hardwood sizes should be distributed throughout the flight. Using durable wood is important to minimize the need for frequent replacements, which can disturb the birds. A perch positioned directly in front of the nest box entrance can facilitate easier entry and exit for the birds, reducing the risk of them stepping on eggs or chicks. Providing at least one perch with a diameter of three inches or larger offers a stable surface for copulation. If perches are very straight, they should be mounted at a slight angle to provide a higher section for the male during mating. Grouping most perches towards the ends of the flight encourages flight.
While some macaws may breed in close proximity, a recommended spacing of at least three feet (one meter) between breeding pairs is advised. This buffer zone helps define territories and reduces inter-pair stress and aggression. Barriers that prevent neighboring birds from seeing into each other’s nest boxes can also be beneficial in minimizing distress.
Diet and Breeding Nutrition
A healthy, balanced diet should be provided to the Blue and Gold Macaws year-round. However, when breeding is imminent, or shortly after the first egg is laid, it is advisable to introduce a specialized breeder pellet. These breeder diets are formulated to replenish the essential nutrients that are depleted from the parents’ bodies during egg production and chick-rearing. They are typically richer in fats, proteins, Vitamin D3, calcium, and other minerals, which are crucial for the rapid growth of chicks’ bones, muscles, and feather development. It is important to note that breeder pellets should not be fed continuously, as they can be too rich for the parents once the chicks’ needs are met, potentially leading to health issues.
With proper care and attention to their environmental and nutritional needs, Blue and Gold Macaws are considered relatively easy to breed.
Source:
- Csaky, K. (2016, February 15). Breeding of the Blue and Gold Macaw. Parrots Daily News. https://www.parrotsdailynews.com/breeding-of-the-blue-and-gold-macaw/
