Scarlet Macaw (alternate: Red-and-yellow Macaw)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Psittacidae, Genus: Ara, Species: Ara macao
Family: Psittacidae (True Parrots / Macaws)
- Shape
- Highly asymmetrical vane characteristic of a primary flight feather, with a narrow leading edge (anterior vane) and a broad trailing edge (posterior vane). The tip is tapered and slightly rounded.
- Size
- Approximately 10–14 inches (25–35 cm) in length. This is consistent with the outer primary feathers of a large macaw species.
- Rarity
- Uncommon to Rare in the wild due to habitat loss and poaching, though common in aviculture. Locally extinct in many parts of its former range.
Found a feather like this?
Identify any feather from a photo, free.
Description
A long, tapered primary feather from one of the world's most iconic parrots. The Scarlet Macaw is a large, brilliantly colored bird reaching nearly 3 feet in length (including tail). It features scarlet red plumage on most of the body, with yellow wing coverts and blue flight feathers. This yellow feather represents the bright wing band that distinguishes it from the Green-winged Macaw.
Colour & Pattern
Uniform vibrant golden-yellow to rich orange-yellow on the dorsal surface. The color is structural and melanin-based. No banding or spots are present. The ventral side is a slightly more matte version of the same hue.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs with well-developed barbicels forming a stiff, wind-resistant surface suitable for powerful flight. The base shows minimal plumulaceous down.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, stiff, and glossy. The surface feels somewhat waxy or oily, providing minor water resistance. The leading edge is extremely rigid compared to the more flexible trailing vane.
Key Features
Pure, unbanded yellow/orange coloration, extreme primary asymmetry, and large size typical of the genus Ara.
Habitat
Humid lowland subtropical and tropical rainforests, open woodlands, and river edges.
Geographic Range
Southeastern Mexico to Amazonian Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. They are largely non-migratory but may move locally following food sources.
Ecological Role
Large-seed predator and disperser. They play a vital role in forest regeneration by carrying seeds away from parent trees. Listed as 'Least Concern' globally by IUCN, but many local populations are 'Critically Endangered'.
Similar Species
Blue-and-yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna) feathers are similar but often show more lime-green/yellow and different curvature; Green-winged Macaw (Ara chloropterus) primaries are deep blue, not yellow.
Interesting Facts
Scarlet Macaws are highly intelligent and can live up to 50–75 years. They use their powerful beaks as a 'third foot' while climbing through the rainforest canopy.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The vanes are tightly closed with no visible fault bars or parasitic wear. This appears to be a freshly molted feather.