The Blue-winged Macaw (Primolius maracana)

The Intelligent Jewel of the Mini-Macaws

The Blue-winged Macaw, also commonly known as the Illiger’s Macaw, is the perfect choice for those who desire the personality and intelligence of a large macaw in a much more compact, manageable size.

As part of the “mini-macaw” family, the Blue-winged is prized for its high energy, extreme devotion to its owners, and its striking, multi-colored plumage.

Key Characteristics

• Compact Elegance: While predominantly green, they feature breathtaking blue flight feathers on their wings and a distinct red patch on the lower back and forehead.

• Large Personality: Don’t let their size fool you. They possess the full “big macaw” temperament—they are playful, mischievous, and incredibly affectionate.

• Sensitive & Bonded: Blue-winged Macaws are known for being deeply attuned to their owners’ emotions and thrive on consistent, daily interaction.

• Adept Mimics: They are surprisingly good talkers for their size and are known for their ability to learn situational phrases and whistles.

Quick Facts

Diet and Enrichment

To keep a Blue-winged Macaw thriving, their environment must cater to their high activity levels:

• Mental Challenges: They are “busy” birds. They require a wide variety of toys, specifically those made of soft woods, leather, and beads that they can manipulate and take apart.

• Nutritional Needs: A base of high-quality pellets should be supplemented with plenty of fresh vegetables, calcium-rich greens, and occasional fruits.

• Exercise: Because they are native to forest environments where they fly long distances, they require significant out-of-cage time to maintain their muscle tone.