Green-winged Macaw (Ara chloropterus)

The Green-winged Macaw (Ara chloropterus) is one of the largest and most majestic members of the macaw family, native to the tropical rainforests of northern and central South America. Often confused with the Scarlet Macaw due to its bright red plumage, the Green-winged Macaw is distinguished by its broader wings marked with rich green and blue feathers, and characteristic red facial lines formed by tiny rows of feathers on bare white skin. It is a highly social and intelligent bird, typically seen flying in pairs or small groups, and is known for its strong lifelong pair bonds and loud, far-carrying calls. In the wild, it feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and occasionally clay from riverbanks to aid digestion. The Green-winged Macaw plays an essential ecological role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.