About Breeding the Scarlet Macaw

When European explorers arrived in the New World, they encountered thousands of new animal and bird species. Among the new discoveries were the beautiful and colorful parrots found in the jungles of Central and South America. The Scarlet Macaw and its cousins are frequently kept as house pets and are often seen performing in animal acts at amusement parks. Breeding these birds is lucrative with most macaws priced at $2,000, at the time of publication. However, producing offspring takes time and commitment.

  1. Scarlet Macaws

    • Native to Mexico, Central and South America, Scarlet Macaws are large birds, measuring up to 3 feet in length and weighing 21/2 lbs. Their vivid red, yellow and blue colors stand out against the green forest and in any home. They are sociable and enjoy human companionship. Highly intelligent, the Scarlet Macaw can learn to speak hundreds of words and phrases. Parrots and macaws are often smuggled illegally into the United States and sold for thousands of dollars. Destruction of their native habitat due to deforestation and the illegal pet trade have placed these birds on endangered species lists.

    Breeding Basics

    • Scarlet Macaws can be bred starting at age 3; they lay two to four white eggs that hatch in about 25 days. The hatchlings do not have down when hatched and cannot eat by themselves. Due to the helplessness of the baby macaws, the parents and human breeders must provide around the clock care and feeding for the first several weeks of their lives.

    Mates

    • Scarlet Macaws mate for life so using male birds as studs or females to raise another's hatchlings is not an option. Owning a macaw is a lifelong commitment since these birds live up to 80 years. Do plenty of research on breeding the Scarlet Macaw and talk to other breeders before taking on the job of breeding these birds. Select mates from a breeder who offers proven pairs, meaning the birds have at one time produced eggs, or a producing pair, indicating the birds have produced eggs recently.

    Cages and Aviaries

    • Since the Scarlet Macaw is a big bird and in need of exercise, have a large cage and play area. An aviary and cage at least 8-by-12 feet and 8 feet high is ideal, providing plenty of room for the birds to fly. The cage area needs plenty of light and warmth. In cold climates during winter, provide heat lamps. An incubator for the new hatchlings is also necessary during the first few weeks. If you have the room, build a natural environment for the macaws, using waterfalls, tropical plants and swings or ropes for play and exercise.

    Food

    • In the wild, macaws eat fruits, hard seeds and nuts. Provide fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and pellet food and plenty of fresh water. A good diet is essential for the female to produce eggs. Add extra calcium to the female's diet; one source is from almonds.