Also called Red-and-yellow macaw, Red-blue-and-yellow macaw, Red-breasted macaw
SpeciesShort profile
From From south-eastern Mexico through Central America to northern and central South America, including the Amazon basin, Peru, Bolivia and central Brazil, plus Trinidad and Coiba Island. It lives in humid lowland rainforest, deciduous forest, river edges, open woodland and savanna, mostly below about 1,000-1,500 m.123
A striking, slender macaw with a very long pointed tail. Most of the body is bright scarlet, with a yellow band across the wings, deep blue flight feathers and a pale blue rump and tail coverts. The face is bare white skin with only a few tiny feathers. The upper beak is pale horn and the lower beak black. Adults have pale yellow eyes; young birds have dark eyes. The northern subspecies shows blue instead of green tips on the yellow wing feathers.123
ColoursScarlet redYellow wing bandBlue flight feathers and rumpWhite bare face12
Personality what they are like
A bold, energetic and very bright macaw with plenty of attitude. Scarlet macaws are curious and active and need an owner who can match their energy with training and play. They tend to learn a handful of words rather than a large vocabulary and are naturally very loud. Many bond most closely with one person unless they are handled by the whole family.32
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. Needs several hours out of the cage daily, large swings and climbing frames, and a constant supply of things to chew.31
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Provide large, sturdy toys and fresh chewables regularly. Secure latches are worth having, as they are skilled at working out how cages open.3
Home where they are happiest
A very large, strong cage plus play stand; World Parrot Trust advises that aviary birds have around 15 m of flight space.31
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A balanced diet of pellets with fresh fruits, vegetables and healthy table foods, plus nuts as treats. Wild birds eat seeds, fruits, flowers, nectar, leaves and bark.312
Company who they like around
Very social; wild birds live in pairs and small groups. It needs owners who are at home a lot and can give daily attention.32
The story where it all began
Linnaeus described the scarlet macaw in 1758, but people valued it long before that: around the 11th century birds were bred in captivity at Paquimé in northern Mexico, and its feathers were traded over long distances. Today it is the national bird of Honduras and one of the best-known parrots in the world.2
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Scarlet Macaw?
Feed fresh food and water daily. Furry Diary's starting plan is to provide fresh food and water every day. For the right amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.31Pet Wiki plan
What does a Scarlet Macaw eat, and what should it never eat?
A balanced diet includes pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts as treats. For foods to avoid, ask your vet or a good breeder for a complete list.31
How much space does a Scarlet Macaw need?
A very large, strong cage with a play stand is essential, and the World Parrot Trust recommends around 15 meters of flight space for aviary birds. Your macaw also needs several hours out of the cage daily for exercise.31
What temperature, light or water does a Scarlet Macaw need?
Temperature, light, and water needs vary depending on your home and climate. Consult an avian vet or experienced breeder for specific recommendations.
How often should I clean a Scarlet Macaw's home?
Change the cage liner daily and give the cage a full clean weekly. Offer a bath every few days to help with feather care. Pet Wiki plan
Can a Scarlet Macaw live with others?
Scarlet macaws are very social and in the wild live in pairs or small groups. They can live with other birds if introduced carefully, but they often bond closely with one person. Always supervise introductions.32
How long does a Scarlet Macaw live?
Scarlet macaws can live between 40 and 90 years, so be ready for a lifelong commitment.321
Can I handle a Scarlet Macaw?
Yes, with regular, gentle handling from a young age, scarlet macaws can be very affectionate and bond with their owner. They need daily interaction and plenty of out-of-cage time.32
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Green-winged Macaw
Blue-and-gold Macaw