Macaw Species · South America
Green-Winged Macaw
Deep red with green wing bands — often called a gentler large macaw.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Green-Winged Macaw — Red-and-Green Macaw in some regions — is a large crimson parrot with green wing bands. Its defining trait is often calmer temperament than Scarlet Macaws, though space and noise demands remain extreme.
Green-Winged Macaw: At a Glance
| Origin | South America |
|---|---|
| Size | Large (90–95 cm) |
| Typical length | 90–95 cm (35–37 in) typical length; among the largest macaws |
| Lifespan | 40–60 years (large macaws) or 30–40 years (mini macaws) |
| Plumage | Deep red body plumage with broad green wing coverts and blue flight feathers. Bare facial skin shows red lines on white. Regular bathing and humidity support feather sheen; tail and wing feathers need room to avoid breakage in tight housing. |
| Temperament | Calmer than scarlet, affectionate |
| Conservation note | Expert aviculturists only — CITES-regulated across range countries with ongoing habitat pressure in Amazonian forests. Captive Green-wings suit dedicated owners providing aviary life, social bonding and mental stimulation. Often described as affectionate but not apartment birds. |
History & Origins
Green-Winged Macaws inhabit humid lowland forests from Panama to Paraguay, overlapping Scarlet range but preferring wetter forest. Historic trapping for feathers and pets reduced local abundance. Legal captive breeding networks supply aviculture outside range countries. Wild conservation depends on protected forest corridors and anti-trafficking enforcement.
Green-Winged Macaw Fun Facts
- Green-Winged Macaws are slightly larger and heavier than Scarlet Macaws on average.
- They are sometimes called Red-and-Green Macaws to avoid confusion with Military Macaws.
- Pairs share nest cavities in large dead trees for many seasons.
- Their calls carry kilometres through rainforest canopy.
Green-Winged Macaw Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Feather destructive behaviour
Barbering, plucking or chewing feathers indicates medical or psychological distress.
Care: Full avian vet workup then enrichment, social time and environmental changes.
Heavy metal toxicity
Ingestion of lead, zinc or copper from toys, hardware or galvanized surfaces causes neurological signs and GI upset.
Care: Use stainless steel hardware and avian-safe materials. Blood testing and chelation therapy under veterinary care if exposure suspected.
Respiratory infections
Bacterial or fungal respiratory disease presents with discharge, sneezing and reduced activity.
Care: Avoid smoke, candles and non-stick cookware fumes. Prompt culture-based treatment from an avian veterinarian.
Macaws belong in the wild
Every macaw species in this guide is threatened by habitat loss and the illegal pet trade. A symbolic adoption or gift to WARN helps fund anti-trafficking work and sanctuary care for parrots seized from smugglers.
