Macaws, Cockatoos and Other Birds

The first thing you must know about Macaws, like those you find in any pet store, is that they are on the endangered list. Many Macaws are actually already extinct- like that of the Cuban Macaw. Unless trade becomes more regulated we might run into some problems. People love Macaws because of their beautiful colors and personality. Macaws can learn to speak english and they do it very well like the Cockatoo. Cockatoos are not to be mistaken with a Cockateil. Cockateils have a mohak like appearance which tends to be light yellow. Cockatoos normally come in a light white/ cream color with a mohak also, but they are larger and more expensive. Macaws are the most expensive and tend to be the most colorful also.

There are many different species of Macaws. They are all quite large, much larger than the average parakeet. Macaws are usually quite vocal and much louder than a Cockatoo or smaller bird like that of a parakeet. Parakeets and Cockateils are usually quite and non talkers. Birds can be taught to talk but it requires a lot of attention and patience. Parakeet male and Cockateil males tend to a lot harder to teach words to. Some will only say one word but most will not speak at all.

Macaws, like many other birds, come from the rainforest near Brazil and Mexico. In the wild these birds tend to eat nuts and berries as well as small insects during certain times of the year. In captivity these birds eat fruits and different types of bird seed.

Macaws, like many other birds, can be quite expensive. They can cost thousands of dollars and their cages can also cost thousands of dollars. Cockatoos, Amazons and Macaws live for a long period of time. They can live to be over 60 years old. They may even out-live you!

You must know that birds like these can become very sick if they are exposed to cold or windy temperatures. Never take your bird outside during colder months.

Your veterinarian can help you find birds that are around or in your area. You can purchase them from breeders, pet stores or personal owners.

Many veterinarians do not specialize in birds, so you will need to call around a find a vet that you can take the bird to for yearly check ups and other things. When you purchase a bird you should always schedule a check up to see if the bird has any health issues or other problems.

I would recommend keeping small childrens away from large birds because sometimes they can bite and it hurts quite a bit. You should also understand that like toddlers, birds go through the terrible twos. This might just be a phase that the bird is going through.