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Macaws-Care and Safety

Two Macaws Parrots

Macaws are beautiful, but require a great deal of attention and care. Healthy birds have shiny, lustrous feathers that are neatly aligned. Without proper hygiene and grooming, they can easily look filthy and bedraggled.

Macaws Care and Safety-Baths

Since macaws are used to the tropical rainforests, they love water—and need baths more frequently than other parrot varieties. You don’t need an elaborate water foundation. Just a deep dish with plain tepid water will do, though some birds prefer a quick shower with their owners, or a vigorous shower. Eventually, through trial and error, you’ll find out what your pets prefer, but whatever you do, don’t use any soaps! The harsh chemicals may cause skin irritations.

Your pet may need a little coaxing before they get into the bath. Don’t traumatize it by forcing it. Instead, let it get used to water by spritzing it with a water bottle. Then, use shallow water, increasing the amount only when it’s started to become accustomed to the routine.

Macaws Care and Safety -Clipping wings and nails

Macaws are strong flyers, and if they escape, there’s a chance you’ll never see them again! Many owners recommend clipping the wing feathers. This still lets them fly, but not for long distances. They can exercise, and you may actually be more inclined to let it out of the cage more often, since you won’t be afraid that they’ll escape.

Clipping wings can also protect your macaws. Many simply won’t survive on their own, and they can fall into the hands of a person who’s not equipped to give them the care they need and deserve!

Beaks are rarely trimmed. Macaws are vigorous chewers and they will wear down their beaks on their own. However, you will need to trim their nails.

Macaws Care and Safety-Grooming

Many birds will groom themselves by “brushing” their feathers with their beaks. This is not only normal, but healthy. If your macaws neglect themselves, they may be depressed, lethargic, or too weak to move—all signs of a serious condition. Bring them to the vet immediately!

Also watch out for self-mutilation, i.e., when the macaws pull out their own feathers. Some birds do this when they are depressed or belligerent, and should make you seriously look at whether or not you are failing to meet the birds’ basic needs. Do they get enough exercise? Do they have enough room in the cage? Are they left alone for long periods without any opportunity for stimulation? Are they distressed by the presence of another bird?