The Verde Macaw is a first-generation hybrid macaw, meaning its parents are two species of naturally occurring macaws. “Autumn” is a hybrid macaw cross between a Scarlet Macaw and a Buffon’s Macaw. The Scarlet Macaw is very beautiful, inquisitive, and intelligent, but a bit more boisterous than other macaws so requires good socialization. The Buffon’s Macaw is quite docile and affectionate. This mixture makes for a very intelligent and trainable pet, that can also be an affectionate companion. But it will also need a firm consistent hand in training, especially as it matures.

   Hybrid macaws are bred primarily for color. Because hybrid macaws are a mixture of more than one type of macaw, the offspring are influenced by the traits and characteristics of both of its parents. Father’s have the dominant gene, so this will generally influence the offspring’s coloration and overall appearance. However, the behavior and temperament are more unpredictable.

   Besides being a hybrid that is very attractive, the personality influences of the Verde Macaw are a good mix for an active, lively pet bird. With the intelligence and temperament of both its parents it should also be quite trainable, learn to talk and do tricks, and have an amiable nature. As with all macaws, they will require good socialization and consistent training to make good pets.

   See hybrid information, breeding combinations, and photos of hybrid macaws on the Hybrid Macaws page.

Scientific name

   The Verde Macaw is a first-generation hybrid macaw. It is a cross between a Buffon’s MacawAra ambigua and a Scarlet Macaw Ara macao.

Distribution

   This is a captive-bred hybrid macaw. Hybrid macaws are rarely found in the wild.

Description

   The Verde Macaw, being a cross between a Buffon’s Macaw and a Scarlet Macaw, is a very colorful hybrid. Though the father’s have the dominant gene, which will influence their final appearance, both parents contributing to the striking colors of their offspring. Verde’s are full-sized Macaw and can learn tricks as well as mimic a few sounds of the human voice.

   “Autumn (seen above)… age 13, was bred in captivity. Spent 10 years in a pet store cage until we got him and gave him a home. Plumage colors are Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Pale Blue. Length (Beak to Tail tip): 48″ Wingspan: 58” Weight: 1395g approx 3 lbs “… Thomas Nelson

Size – Weight

   A full-sized macaw, they can get over 2 lbs. Lengths generally up to 85 cm (33 inches).

Care and feeding

   A roomy cage is required unless the bird is to be let out for extended periods. Many birds can spend most of their time on a play pen or parrot perch. They eat a variety of seeds, nuts, fruits, and commercial pellets, as well as the same nutritional foods humans eat. See About Macaws: Housing and About Macaws: Care and Feeding for more information.

Social Behaviors

   Verde Macaws socialize and bond closely with one person but do well in a family situation also. They are a typical macaw and can be cranky at times. To have a well rounded bird that enjoys more that one person, make sure it is well socialized with lots of folks. See About Macaws: Social Behaviors for information on developing a well rounded friendly macaw. (Also information on handling and activities)

Breeding/Reproduction

   This is a hybrid and it use to be that they were generally not bred, however the breeding of hybrids is becoming more common. See About Macaws: Macaw Breeding, Bird Reproduction – Baby Macaws for information on breeding macaws.

Sexual differences

   No visible differences.

Potential Problems

   Can be noisy (as can all macaws).  See About Macaws: Potential Problems for information on illnesses.

Availability

   Finding these macaws for sale is generally hard as they are rare, and they are expensive. There are more and more macaw breeders however, so finding these macaws for sale becomes easier as they become more common.


Featured Image Credit: Alisha Watson, Shutterstock