Hyacinth Macaw Care Guide

Hyacinth Macaw Size
The giant of the parrot world, Hyacinth Macaw will grow to be over 3 feet head to tail at full maturity. Learn all about Hyacinth Macaw care here.
These gentle giants can live over 60 years in captivity when well cared for and their majestic appearance make them a favorite for many, but these birds aren’t really for everybody and come with a lot of demands.
Hyacinth Macaw Care

Despite an imposing appearance with its enormous size and hooked beak, the Hyacinth Macaw is a gentle bird by nature and thrives on interacting with its human companions. They’re intelligent and easy to tame and train.
The Hyacinth Macaw can be quite vocal with a variety of growls and screeching and purring. Though they tend to be most vocal when paired with other birds.
They demand a lot of time and attention, these aren’t easy birds to keep and especially aren’t for owners with very busy lives.
Hyacinth Macaw Diet
Hyacinth Macaws have very specific dietary needs that are high in carbs and fat. Specifically fatty nuts. They also need a good variety of fruits and leafy greens. Their beaks are so strong they can crack open coconuts.
You can learn more about the Hyacinth Macaw’s dietary needs straight from a veterinarian here.
Hyacinth Macaw Habitat
The Hyacinth Macaw needs a lot of space to move about. Given their size (over 3 feet) and strong beaks, a large and strong cage is required
Hyacinth Macaw Behavior
Gentle giants, these intelligent birds are easy to tame and train with time and positive reinforcements, and they tend to form strong bonds with their human companions.
They can be nippy and quite loud, all things to consider before deciding to bring one home. Are you prepared for the demands it will place on you to keep the bird happy and healthy and is your home a good fit for such a large and noisy pet?
Hyacinth Macaw Care Synopsis
Wonderfully vibrant, playful, and loyal companions, but they come with high demands for attention and space. The Hyacinth Macaw makes an excellent pet bird for the right owner with enough room.
Is it legal to own a Hyacinth Macaw?
Buying and selling of wild-caught Hyacinth Macaws is illegal, however, it’s completely legal to own and trade those born in captivity. Hyacinth Macaws are very difficult to breed though, which all factors into their high prices.
Are Hyacinth Macaws aggressive?
Macaws in general can have a stubborn streak, but they aren’t aggressive and the Hyacinth Macaw is especially gentle for such a giant bird.
Are Hyacinth Macaws easy to care for?
Being such docile and easygoing birds, caring for the Hyacinth Macaw is relatively easy. However, it should also be noted that easy doesn’t mean without unique challenges, for example they do need lots of attention time, they need their minds stimulated, and they need a lot of space.
Who should own a Hyacinth Macaw?
These beautiful and affectionate birds are excellent companions for experienced bird owners with plenty of space to share and who will appreciate their unique and sometimes stubborn personalities.

Nicholas Burns – Veterinary Technician, amateur Ornithologist
Nick has volunteered at bird rescues since he was a teenager and worked as a veterinary technician for almost two decades. He has extensive experience with animal care and a special love for birds, especially his African Grey, Scrooge (who knows all the bad words!).