Anodorhynchus

The Anodorhynchus genus includes three species: Hyacinth Macaw, Lear’s Macaw and Glaucous Macaw. They are characterised by blue body plumage, a very long tail and large strong beak. With a length of approx. 100 cm the Hyacinth Macaw is the largest parrot species in the world.

Anodorhynchus are native to South America: Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia and Argentina.

All three species are threatened according to IUCN Red List due to hunting, trapping and habitat degradation; they are listed on CITES Appendix I and II and protected by local laws.

• Glaucous Macaw was believed to be Extinct but has been listed as Critically Endangered since 2000; however the population is estimated to be less than 50 birds.
• Hyacinth Macaw was previously listed as Endangered but was downgraded to Vulnerable in 2014.
• Lear’s Macaw was previously listed as Critically Endangered; in 1983 the population was estimated to only 60 birds! Fortunately the population now seem to be increasing thanks to local conservation programs and it has been downgraded to Vulnerable since 2009.