When shopping for a Scarlet Macaw parrot, be sure you choose a bird that was born in captivity from a reputable breeder.
Scarlet Macaws are among the most beautiful of pet birds, but they’re not a pet that you should buy on the spur of the moment. You need to think long and hard about your decision, and make sure you’re well prepared before purchasing any Macaw parrot.
Scarlet Macaws Are Beautiful
Scarlet Macaws are large parrots that are native to areas of Central and South America. Their numbers in the wild are dwindling due to poaching, deforestation and the pet trade. They are predominantly scarlet red, with strips of yellow and blue on their wings. A bare white patch surrounds their eyes. They can grow to a length of 35 inches from head to tail and weigh up to 2.5 pounds.
Scarlet Macaws Are Needy
Of all the Macaws, the Scarlet Macaw is probably the most susceptible to loneliness, depression and behavior problems. These problems can be prevented with diligent attention and proper care – beginning when they’re babies and continuing throughout their whole lives. And they can live a long time – 40 – 80 years.
Scarlet Macaws can be extremely affectionate towards their owners, and aggressive towards others. Their behavior depends on: their individual personality; how they’re socialized when young; and how their cared for on an ongoing basis. Children should always be supervised when interacting with a Scarlet Macaw.
A Scarlet Macaw requires as large a cage as possible – at least 3 or 4 feet wide and deep by 5 or 6 feet tall. The cage will ideally have a perch or play area attached to the top or side of the cage for exercise and stimulation. Provide them with plenty of toys to play with and objects to chew on such as wood blocks and mineral blocks.
Scarlet Macaws thrive on a varied diet of special Macaw pellets (primary), vegetables, fruits, nuts, and many other foods.
Macaws require plenty of attention and stimulation everyday, so they’re not a good pet for the frequent traveler or the person with a job requiring long hours. They get depressed and aggressive when left alone for long periods and engage in loud screeching and even pull their feathers out in protest.
A Scarlet Macaw can be sold for $2000 to $3000. This explains the illegal smuggling and sales of wild caught Macaws. Do your best to stay away from illegal wild-caught birds. Do your research and make sure you’re buying a captive bred Scarlet Macaw. And it’s wise to pay a little extra to get one that’s been Veterinary checked and certified to be free of disease and problems.
Before purchasing a Scarlet Macaw, do your homework and think long and hard about your decision. Make sure you’re 100% comfortable with the responsibility of owning one of these highly intelligent and beautiful pet birds for the next 40 – 80 years.
