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Macaws are magnificent birds in appearance, personality, and intelligence. If you are considering one as a pet, here are 8 characteristics you should be aware of so that once you make your decision-it’s a match for life.

Life Span-One of the most incredible characteristics of this bird is its longevity. Many live up to 50 years with some aviaries reporting birds whose ages are approaching sixty years. This means a lifetime commitment for the owner, with some outliving their owners. To be fair to the bird, make sure you are ready for such a long-term relationship. Project your lifestyle 20 or 30 years from now, and ask yourself if this bird will still feel like a good fit. If the answer is yes, then go for it!

Health-Generally a pretty hardy species, much of your bird’s health, both present and future, will depend on the bird’s origin. Make sure you have an avian vet check the bird you are considering thoroughly. Find out as much information as you can from the seller, and if possible, observe the bird in different situations before making a final decision.

Diet-Your bird, like you, needs a well balanced diet. Fresh organic fruits and vegetables, nuts, and sprouted seeds on a regular basis provide many of the nutrients necessary for good health. High quality pellets are also an option (look for those without the additives), but be prepared for rejection of this food source as many parrots won’t touch it. Be sure to talk with your vet about your bird’s specific nutritional needs, many of which can be determined with blood work. And of course occasional treats will make your bird love you all the more.

Color-If you are looking for lots of color choices, the Macaw runs the gamut in color options. In fact your choice will properly be harder because of the variety. Regardless of which you decide on, the beautiful combinations of reds, blues, greens, and golds will make this bird turn heads and be a visual treat for all the days you have it.

Space-Macaws are big birds and need a lot of space both inside and outside of the cage as many have wing spans of 3 ½ feet! Providing proper space will go a long way towards keeping your bird emotionally happy which means your pet is nicer to be around.

Macaws and Children-Even the gentlest and tamest bird can undergo a change in personality as it gets older. Their beaks are incredibly strong tools capable of crushing the shells of nuts, and as such can impose irrevocable injuries to children and adults. This is not the pet for children or even for every adult. Children should be kept away from parrots without extremely close supervision. If you are considering a Macaw without children, but someday hope to have children, this should give you pause.

Human Interaction-These birds do best in a home where there will be plenty of daily human interaction. Some owners have been known to take their pets with them to work to insure that they can provide the constant attention this bird needs. If you work away from home all day, or travel frequently, this is not the bird for you. They need several hours outside of the cage daily for exercise and their emotional well being.

Noise-Their screams are legendary and in the wild can be heard for miles. If you live in a home that has common walls-condo, apartment, or townhouse-your neighbors might not be as tolerant as you are, particularly early in the morning or late at night.