How to identify the Hyacinth Macaw

To correctly identify the Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

95-100 cm (37-39 in)

Wingspan

117-127 cm (46-50 in)

Weight

1.2-1.7 kg (2.6-3.7 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Entirely brilliant cobalt-blue plumage, slightly darker on the wings and tail. The underside of the flight feathers is blackish.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Large, powerful, and sharply curved black beak, perfectly adapted for cracking hard palm nuts. A bright yellow, bare skin patch is present at the base of the lower mandible.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, surrounded by a distinctive bright yellow, bare orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to blackish

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Its immense size, uniform deep blue coloration, and the prominent yellow patches around the eye and at the base of the lower mandible are unmistakable. No other macaw is entirely blue.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have a slightly duller blue plumage, a shorter tail, and the yellow facial patches are paler and less extensive. Their eyes may appear darker.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent year-round.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are outwardly monomorphic, meaning they look identical in plumage and size. DNA sexing or behavioral observation during breeding is required to distinguish sexes.

Key field marks

• Overall Coloration. Look for the uniform, deep, brilliant cobalt-blue plumage across the entire body. No other macaw is this intensely blue.
• Size. Its immense size (up to 1 meter long) makes it stand out. It is the largest flying parrot in the world.
• Facial Markings. Observe the distinctive bright yellow, bare skin patch at the base of the lower mandible and the equally prominent yellow orbital ring around the dark brown eye. These yellow markings are key identifiers.
• Beak. Note the massive, powerful, and sharply curved black beak, which is disproportionately large compared to other macaws.
• Vocalizations. Listen for their loud, guttural, and often harsh 'kraa-a-a' calls, especially when they are flying or communicating.
• Flight Pattern. Watch for their powerful, direct flight with deep wing beats, often in pairs or small groups.

Explore the Hyacinth Macaw