Names: Golden-collared Macaw, Yellow-collared Macaw Scientific name: Primolius auricollis Conservation status: Least Concern Info: The Golden-collared Macaw is a small mostly green Central South American parrot, a member of a large group of Neotropical parrots known as macaws. It has a bright yellow patch on the back of its neck/upper shoulders that gives the species its name. In aviculture, it is one of a number of smaller macaws often called "mini-macaws". It has a total length of about 38 cm, of which almost half is tail feathers. The general plumage is green, with a distinct yellow collar that is broadest on the back of the neck. The yellow collar develops as the bird ages, with more vibrant colors found in mature birds. The front and crown is brownish black. The remiges and primary coverts are blue and the long, pointed tail has a red base, a narrow green center and a blue tip. The underside of the tail and flight feathers are greenish-yellow, similar to that of several other small macaws such as the blue-winged and red-bellied macaw. The legs are a dull pinkish color, and the iris is reddish to dull yellow. It has extensive bare white facial skin and the heavy bill is black, often tipped pale grey. As a domestic pet a Golden-collared Macaw is extremely social and demands attention. It requires about three to four hours per day of interaction or they will start to squawk, which can be loud enough to be heard from outside the house. When properly cared for they can live up to fifty years. This bird can rest on your shoulder for hours at a time and at times will require cuddling. They are also very curious and love to chew, and love to hang about you just for fun. It feeds on fruits, flower buds and seeds. In captivity they will try anything, even chicken (although not recommended). Pets they require vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Avocado and chocolate are poisonous for them. The Golden-collared Macaw nests in a hole in a tree. The eggs are white and there are usually two or three in a clutch. The female incubates the eggs for about 26 days, and the chicks fledge from the nest about 70 days after hatching.
