Blue-winged Macaw

Identification

The blue-winged macaw is a small macaw measuring 36–43 cm in length, notable for its predominantly green plumage accented with striking blue and red markings. Its common name derives from the blue coloring on the upperside of the remiges and primary coverts. The bird displays a distinctive appearance with a bluish tail-tip, crown, and cheeks, while the tail-base and a small belly-patch are bright red. The underside of the wings is yellowish, and the bird has a moderately sized black bill and a long tail. One of only two macaw species with yellowish bare facial skin (the other being the red-bellied macaw), this feature often fades to white in captivity. The iris is amber. In flight, the blue-winged macaw exhibits a characteristic jerky, rearing motion that aids in field identification.

Range & Habitat

This species occurs across eastern and southern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and formerly in far northeastern Argentina and east of Bolivia. Blue-winged macaws favor evergreen and deciduous forests, particularly gallery forests. While some populations have declined, recent records from Brazil suggest the species remains widespread and has even recolonized areas within its historical range in southern Rio de Janeiro.

Behaviour & Diet

Blue-winged macaws are intensely social birds and strong fliers that typically feed on seeds from plants including Cnidoscolus phyllacanthus, Jatropha, Guazuma ulmifolia, and the non-native Melia azedarach, supplemented by fruits and nuts. They reach sexual maturity between 2 and 4 years of age. Females typically produce two eggs with an incubation period of approximately 29 days, and young birds learn to fly about 11 weeks after hatching, remaining with their parents for roughly a year afterward. The breeding season in northeastern Brazil occurs from December to February.

Best Time & Places to See It

Travelers seeking this species should focus on eastern and southern Brazil, particularly gallery forests and wooded areas. December to February offers the best opportunity to observe breeding activity in northeastern Brazil. The species' preference for gallery forests makes these riparian corridors priority areas for finding this small macaw in the field.

Photography Tips

The blue-winged macaw's distinctive jerky, rearing flight pattern presents a unique photographic challenge and opportunity. Photographing these birds in their preferred gallery forest habitat requires patience and attention to their characteristic behavior. The vibrant contrast between green plumage and blue-red markings, combined with the amber iris and yellowish facial skin, rewards photographers who manage to capture clear, well-lit images. Early morning sessions in gallery forests offer the best light and activity levels for documenting this small but colorful macaw species.