Can I Take Care Of A Harlequin Macaw?

Are you aware that Green-Wing Macaw is an expensive pet?

Do you live in an apartment?

Can you commit to spending a lot of time socializing with a Harlequin macaw?

Can you provide a large cage (at least 5-foot square and 8-foot high) for a Harlequin macaw?

Can you provide a varied, high-quality diet for a Harlequin macaw?

Do you have a veterinarian that specializes in exotic birds?

Before bringing this bird home, be prepared to spend much in terms of time, feed, equipment, veterinary bills, and possibly home repair costs. Pricing for harlequin macaws ranges from $3,500 to $5,000, depending on if the bird is hand-tamed and the reputation of the breeder. If you feel that you wouldn't be able to provide a bird with the best of everything, consider holding off on adopting one until you can.

Harlequin macaw will screech and scream when it gets excited, feels threatened, or wants attention. This vocalization can get very loud so Harlequin is an unsuitable companion for those who live in an apartment or other close quarters. Also, if you don't want your parrot to awaken you early every morning by screaming at the top of its lungs, do not get a macaw.

Harlequin macaws require a lot of socialization and handling, so owners need to spend time with the bird daily. A macaw that becomes bored or feels neglected can act out by biting, destroying things around the house, or resort to self-mutilation and feather plucking.

These birds need a large cage that is at least 5-foot square and 8-foot high placed in a draft-free location. It should include a perch and plenty of stimulating toys to keep it occupied while confined. The cage needs to be cleaned at least every two months or more often if it gets soiled quicker.

Macaws are a very high energy bird. For good health, they will need foods rich in oils and calories. In the wild, macaws eat a variety of palm nuts, seeds, and fruit. In captivity, they should eat a diet that includes a high-quality seed and formulated pellet mix. It's also important to include daily servings of fresh bird-safe fruits and vegetables. Each macaw, depending on its size, will eat about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of parrot mix and about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of fruit and vegetables per day.

You can take care of a Harlequin macaw!

Harlequin macaws are susceptible to several health issues that require medical attention. The most notable diseases that Harlequin macaw can succumb to are Proventricular dilation disease (also called macaw wasting disease), Psittacine beak-and-feather disease, and Psittacosis. Other, less serious problems include allergies and behavior problems. If you suspect your bird is ill, you will need an avian veterinarian or exotics specialist to check out your bird. You should plan on having annual exams with this specialized vet.