Severe Macaw

Looks how to spot one

Feathered; slim macaw with a long tail making up about half its length

A mostly green macaw with a chestnut-brown band just above the black beak and flashes of red and blue in the wings. The bare white facial patch is crossed by fine lines of tiny dark feathers, a detail that sets it apart from the other mini macaws. The long tail accounts for roughly half of the bird's total length.13

Personality what they are like

Severe macaws are bright, inquisitive and sociable, and a well-socialised bird can be very affectionate with its chosen people, often asking for head scratches. They tend to have a mind of their own, so steady, patient handling from an early age pays off. They can learn some words, but they are better known for their loud, raspy calls, which are quieter than those of the big macaws yet still carry well.31

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Needs plenty of daily time out of the cage for exercise and exploring, along with climbing ropes, swings and puzzle toys to keep it busy.32

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Provide lots of bird-safe items to chew, ropes to climb and regular chances to bathe. Rotate toys to keep interest high.23

Home where they are happiest

A large cage tall enough for the long tail, with several perches and toys. The World Parrot Trust suggests an aviary at least 4 m long, or a 3 m aviary with seasonal access to a bigger flight.32

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Wild birds eat seeds, fruit pulp, flowers and even bark. In the home a good-quality pellet diet should be the base, with fresh fruit and vegetables every day and some seeds, cooked beans and corn.23

Company who they like around

Very social and needs consistent daily interaction and training. In the wild it roosts communally and usually moves around in pairs or small flocks.32

The story where it all began

Linnaeus gave the species its first scientific name in 1758, and Lacepede placed it among the true macaws in 1799. The name severus is Latin for stern, and Lafeber links it to the bird's harsh calls. It has long been kept as a companion bird and is one of the best-known mini macaws.13

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Least Concern; described as fairly common, though numbers are decreasing.2

CITES

Appendix II.2

Taxonomy

Described by Linnaeus in 1758 as Psittacus severus and moved to the genus Ara by Lacepede in 1799. It is the largest of the mini macaws.1