Different Breeds of Macaws
Hello, I’m Michael Anderson, and as the founder of MACAW PARROT FOR SALE HOME, I’ve dedicated my life to raising, studying, and working hands-on with macaws. Many people dream of welcoming a macaw into their lives, but they’re often unsure about the commitment involved or which species is truly right for them.
This guide is here to help.
We’re going to explore the different breeds of macaws, their unique personalities, care requirements, and what truly sets each species apart. My goal is simple: to give you honest, experience-based knowledge so you can make an informed decision and build a lifelong, successful bond with the right macaw for your home.
Understanding the different breeds of macaws is the first step toward a healthy, happy future for both you and your bird.
Key Takeaways
Personality Varies by Species
While all macaws are intelligent and social, their temperaments vary widely depending on species, size, and individual upbringing.
Size Matters
From smaller macaws like Severes to giant Green-Wings, size affects housing, diet, strength, noise level, and daily interaction needs.
Vocalization Levels Differ
Macaws are naturally loud parrots, but some species are significantly more vocal than others — an important factor for neighbors and shared living spaces.
Time & Engagement Requirements
All macaws require daily interaction, enrichment, and mental stimulation, but some species demand far more hands-on involvement than others.
Lifespan & Long-Term Care
Macaws often live 40–70+ years. Choosing the right species is a serious, long-term responsibility that impacts lifestyle and finances.
Finding the Right Match Is Everything
The key to success is matching the right macaw species to your lifestyle, experience level, and household environment.
Understanding the Different Breeds of Macaws: More Than Just Beauty
Macaws are often admired for their vivid colors and impressive size, but their appearance is only a small part of the story. These birds are emotionally complex, extremely intelligent, and deeply social. They form strong bonds, think critically, and require structure, purpose, and interaction to thrive.
At MACAW PARROT FOR SALE HOME, our mission is not just to place birds — it’s to ensure every macaw is matched with a home that truly understands what macaw ownership involves. Education is everything. When owners understand the differences between macaw species, success follows.
The macaw family is incredibly diverse. A Severe Macaw and a Green-Wing Macaw may both be macaws, but their care requirements, strength, emotional needs, and daily management are completely different. Understanding these nuances is the foundation of responsible ownership.
After decades of working with macaws — hand-feeding babies, managing behavioral challenges, and supporting families long after placement — I can say this with certainty:
macaws are not casual pets. They are lifelong companions with the emotional intelligence of a young child and the physical power of a wild animal.
A Closer Look at Popular Macaw Species and Their Temperaments
1. Blue & Gold Macaw (Ara ararauna)
One of the most popular macaw species worldwide, Blue & Golds are social, expressive, and highly intelligent. They are known for their playful personalities, strong vocal abilities, and desire to be part of family activity.
They bond deeply with their owners and thrive on structured interaction and training. While affectionate, they are not constant “cuddle birds” and do best with clear boundaries and enrichment.
Best for: Active homes, owners who enjoy training and interaction.
2. Green-Wing Macaw (Ara chloropterus)
Often described as the “gentle giant” of the macaw world, Green-Wings are large, powerful, and emotionally deep. They tend to be calmer and more affectionate than some other large macaws.
Because of their size and strength, they require experienced handling, large enclosures, and owners who understand macaw body language.
Best for: Experienced owners seeking a deeply bonded, affectionate companion.
3. Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao)
Scarlet Macaws are stunning, intelligent, and highly energetic. They are bold, alert, and often more independent than Blue & Golds or Green-Wings.
Scarlets require confident, consistent handling and thrive in environments with strong structure and mental stimulation. They are not typically recommended for first-time macaw owners.
Best for: Experienced handlers who appreciate high-energy, intelligent birds.
4. Military Macaw (Ara militaris)
Military Macaws are loyal, observant, and deeply bonded to their chosen people. They are slightly smaller than the giant macaws but still strong and intelligent.
They can be cautious with strangers and do best in calm, stable environments with consistent routines.
Best for: Owners seeking a loyal, one-person-oriented macaw.
5. Severe (Chestnut-Fronted) Macaw (Ara severus)
Severe Macaws are one of the smaller macaw species, but they are incredibly bold, playful, and confident. They are highly interactive and often excellent talkers.
Their smaller size makes them more manageable, but their intelligence and energy level are just as high as larger macaws.
Best for: Owners wanting a macaw personality in a more compact size.
Choosing a Reputable Macaw Breeder
Selecting the right breeder is just as important as choosing the right species. A reputable macaw breeder should:
- Be transparent about breeding and rearing practices
- Provide veterinary health records
- Offer post-placement support
- Match birds to homes — not rush sales
- Have real, hands-on macaw experience
At MACAW PARROT FOR SALE HOME, we focus on ethical breeding, early socialization, and long-term support. We don’t just place macaws — we build lifelong relationships with the families who welcome them.
Conclusion
Choosing a macaw is not just choosing a pet — it’s choosing a lifelong companion who will share decades of your life. By learning the differences between macaw species, you give yourself the best chance at a successful, fulfilling relationship.
My name is Michael Anderson, and at MACAW PARROT FOR SALE HOME, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way — before, during, and long after you welcome your macaw home.
With the right knowledge, the right match, and the right support, macaw ownership can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
Frequently Asked Question
Q: What are the key differences between larger macaws and smaller macaws when choosing the right fit?
Larger macaws like Green-Wings and Blue & Golds tend to be emotionally deep, physically powerful, and require significant space, structure, and confident handling. They often form intense bonds and need consistent interaction.
Smaller macaws like Severes are just as intelligent and energetic but are more manageable in size and strength. They often suit owners who want a macaw personality without the full-scale demands of a giant species.
The key is not just size — it’s matching the bird’s emotional and physical needs to what you can realistically provide every single day for decades.
