How to identify the Blue-and-yellow Macaw

To correctly identify the Blue-and-yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna), 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

76-86 cm (30-34 in)

Wingspan

104-114 cm (41-45 in)

Weight

900-1500 g (2-3.3 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Dorsal side (back, wings, tail) is brilliant azure blue. Ventral side (chest, belly, underwings) is rich golden-yellow. The forehead and crown are often tinged with green. A prominent black throat patch extends to the sides of the face, which is bare white skin with fine lines of small black feathers forming a distinctive pattern.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Large, powerful, and sharply hooked, dark grey to black in color. The upper mandible is significantly larger and curves over the lower mandible.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Pale yellow to whitish iris in adults, darker in juveniles.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to black, zygodactyl feet (two toes pointing forward, two backward).

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The bare white facial patch with black feather lines is a key identifier. The contrast between the bright blue upperparts and golden-yellow underparts is unmistakable. The long, tapering blue tail with golden-yellow undertail coverts is also characteristic.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have a darker iris (brownish-grey) and a shorter tail. Their plumage may appear slightly duller, and the black feather lines on the facial patch may be less defined.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

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

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Minimal to none. Males and females are outwardly identical in plumage and size. Sexing typically requires DNA testing or surgical sexing.

Key field marks

• Plumage Coloration. Look for the striking combination of bright blue upperparts and golden-yellow underparts. This is the most definitive field mark.
• Facial Patch. Observe the bare white facial skin with distinct lines of small black feathers. This pattern is unique to the species among the large macaws.
• Size and Shape. Its large size (up to 86 cm) and long, tapering tail are characteristic. The powerful, dark, hooked beak is also prominent.
• Vocalizations. Listen for their loud, harsh, and guttural calls, especially when they are flying overhead or in groups.
• Flight Pattern. Note their strong, direct flight with powerful wing beats, often in pairs or small groups, making them conspicuous.

Explore the Blue-and-yellow Macaw