Macaw
Subfamily: Arinae
Distribution: Central and South America
Weight: 200-1700 g
Size: 12 - 40 inches in length
Distinct Markings: Macaws are beautiful, brilliantly colored members of the parrot family. The coloring is suited to life in Central and South American rain forests, with their green canopies and colorful fruits and flowers. The birds boast large, powerful beaks that easily crack nuts and seeds, while their dry, scaly tongues have a bone inside them that makes them an effective tool for tapping into fruits. Macaws also have gripping toes they use to latch onto branches and to grab, hold and examine items. These birds sport graceful tails that are typically very long.
There are 17 species of macaws, several are endangered. Their rain forest habitat is disappearing at an alarming rate. The legality of macaw ownership depends on the breed, its rarity, and the purpose of ownership. Pet trade and illegally trapping is not allowed in the US. You must follow the rules for owning a macaw.