What is a Military Macaw?

A Military Macaw is a colorful type of parrot that can learn to speak in complete sentences. The bird is one of the smallest of the macaws and lives for several years with the right care and diet. The Military Macaw tends to be social and usually lives in a cage or in the wild.

These types of birds derive from a family of approximately 350 species that range from macaws to parakeets. Military Macaws are usually green with a white face. They can also be identified by their black legs, feet, and beak as well as their red and blue feathers. What's unique about the macaws is that they are considered to be zygodactyl, which means they come with two forward- and two backward-pointing toes perfect for grabbing fruits and nuts. The name Military Macaw reportedly comes from military personnel who imported these bird breeds from Mexico into Europe.

Speaking and making noise are what characterize the Military Macaw. As a wild bird, it interacts with flocks of up to 40 birds. A domesticated Military Macaw bonds well with its owner and may be allowed outside of its cage at times for social or human interaction. Like most parrots or parakeets, it can speak words or sentences, and has a reputation for making loud, natural calls said to be vocalizations or conversations between the other birds in the forest.

Compared to other types of birds, the military macaw measures anywhere from 27 to 37 inches (approximately 68 to 94 cm) long. It also lives for up to 40 years or more provided that it is in moderate, well-ventilated temperatures and clean living conditions. Bathing or misting the bird in filtered, lukewarm water can help to keep the macaw clean and healthy. A daily balanced diet of pellets, berries, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables also help the Military Macaw maintain its colorful, alert, and well-groomed appearance.

The playful Military Macaw are often found in southern Mexico and Central and South America, but can live anywhere with a mild climate. In the wild, the bird can be found living in the tropical rainforests, dry woodlands, and in the trees of forests. It can also be domesticated as a household pet as long as the owner commits to its feeding and care. Experts recommend placing it in a large flight cage to give it as much space as possible. The bird will thrive in average room temperatures.