Common Name: Harlequin Macaw
Scientific Classification: Hybrid (no formal scientific name, since it’s a crossbreed)
Parent Species: Blue and Gold Macaw (Ara ararauna) × Green-winged Macaw (Ara chloropterus)
Type: Hybrid macaw (first-generation)
Status: Not found in the wild naturally; selectively bred in captivity
Size: 34–40 inches (86–101 cm) from beak to tail
Weight: 1–1.5 kg (2.2–3.3 lbs)
Wingspan: Up to 40 inches (101 cm)
Lifespan: 50–80 years in captivity with proper care
Plumage:
Typically a blend of the parents’ colors.
Body: Bright orange to reddish-gold chest and belly (from Blue and Gold parent).
Wings & Back: Green to turquoise with red accents (from Green-winged parent).
Face: Bare white facial patch with thin feather lines (like the Green-winged).
Tail: Long, vibrant red, blue, and gold feathers.
Beak: Large, strong, usually black or horn-colored.
Intelligence: Highly intelligent, capable of problem-solving and mimicry.
Personality: Social, playful, affectionate, and clownish.
Vocalization: Loud, capable of mimicking words and sounds, but not as clear as African Greys.
Social Needs: Requires daily interaction; bonds closely with owners.
Activity Level: Extremely active; needs lots of stimulation, toys, and space.
Base Diet: High-quality commercial pellet mix.
Fresh Foods: Fruits (apples, mango, berries, papaya), vegetables (carrots, leafy greens, peppers).
Nuts & Seeds: Given sparingly as treats (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds).
Avoid: Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, salty/fatty foods.
Cage Size: At least 40” x 30” x 60” with bar spacing 1–1.5 inches.
Exercise: Minimum 3–4 hours daily outside the cage.
Enrichment: Foraging toys, climbing ropes, swings, puzzle feeders.
Grooming: Regular nail trimming, occasional baths or misting, wing trimming optional.
