The Spix macaw, also known as the little blue macaw, is a rare and beautiful bird that has
captured the hearts of people all around the world. With its striking blue plumage and
charismatic personality, the Spix macaw is a favourite among bird enthusiasts and animal
lovers alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore 5 fascinating facts about the Spix macaw that you
may not have known before.
Description, Height, Weight, and Color
The Spix macaw is a medium-sized parrot that stands at around 55cm (21.6 inches) tall and
weighs between 250-300 grams (8.8-10.6 ounces). It has distinctive blue feathers on its
head, back, and wings, with a greyish-blue belly and a black beak. The Spix macaw’s bright
blue plumage is one of the most striking features of this species and has made it a popular
subject for bird watchers and photographers.
Discovery of the Bird
The Spix macaw was first discovered in the 19th century by a German naturalist named
Johann Baptist von Spix, who the bird is named after. Spix was a member of a scientific
expedition to Brazil, where he discovered the macaw in the northeastern region of the
country. Since then, the Spix macaw has become one of the most sought-after species for
bird enthusiasts and collectors.
Extinction in the Wild Due to Deforestation and Native to Brazil
The Spix macaw is native to the northeastern region of Brazil, where it once flourished in the
wild. However, due to widespread deforestation and habitat loss, the species has been driven to the brink of extinction. In fact, the Spix macaw is now considered to be one of the rarest birds in the world, with only a few individuals remaining in captivity.
Preservation Efforts
Efforts are being made to preserve the Spix macaw and reintroduce the species back into the wild. The Spix’s Macaw Reintroduction Program is one of the most ambitious conservation efforts in history, involving collaboration between conservationists, scientists, and the Brazilian government. The program aims to breed and reintroduce Spix macaws back into their natural habitat and restore the species to its former range.
Movie Inspired by the Bird – “Rio”
The Spix macaw has captured the hearts of people all around the world, including
filmmakers. The popular animated movie “Rio” features a Spix macaw named Blu as the
main character, and has helped to raise awareness about the plight of this endangered
species. The movie has inspired many people to take action and support conservation efforts
to save the Spix macaw from extinction.
