Ara rubrogenys Lafresnaye, 1847

Taxonomy and Size

The red-fronted macaw (Ara rubrogenys Lafresnaye, 1847) measures 55–60 cm (21.5–23.5 in) in total length.

Plumage Features

Its plumage is mostly green, with distinct red markings: a red forehead, a red patch over the ears, bright red to orange edging on the under wing coverts, and red at the bend of the wings.

Bare Skin and Wing Coloration

It has pinkish bare skin that surrounds the eyes and extends to the beak, and its primary wing feathers are blue.

Native Range

This macaw is native to a small, mountainous, medium-altitude semi-desert area in south-central Bolivia, located roughly 200 km west of Santa Cruz within Santa Cruz Department.

Habitat Vegetation

Its natural habitat is dominated by cacti (both large and small), thorny trees, and scrub.

Local Climate

The climate is semi-arid, with cold nights, hot days, and infrequent heavy rain storms.

Habitat Uniqueness

This species is unique among macaws, as it is the only macaw that lives in this type of climatic zone.

Nesting Behavior

Unlike most macaws, which nest in holes in large trees, the red-fronted macaw has no very large trees available in its range, so it instead nests in vertical fissures in cliff faces.

Threats

In the past, this bird was captured for the pet trade, and it has also been killed by local farmers because it raids their crops.