
Military Macaw
The Military Macaw takes its name from its olive-green plumage, reminiscent of a soldier's uniform, set off by a striking red forehead and vivid blue flight feathers. Highly intelligent and capable of learning an impressive vocabulary, these macaws form strong bonds with their keepers and enjoy interactive play. Their loud voice, powerful beak, and decades-long lifespan mean they're best suited to experienced bird keepers who can commit to their long-term care.
View Military Macaw encyclopedia →0% commission on your first sales!Register by September 30, 2026 and your first 2 sales are commission-free!
Breeder Wanted!
List on BreederDirect and sell directly to customers nationwide!
Six Transparency Commitments from BreederDirect
All Birds listings include complete Breeder transparency: hand-raised status, DNA sex determination, and health certification details.
- Hand-Raised
- DNA Sex-Determined
- Health Certified
- Origin Disclosed
- Color Variation Specified
- Age in Months Disclosed
Browse all 247 breeds
Care Level
Verified breeders wanted for Birds
Breeders are signing up now ahead of launch. Subscribe to be notified when new listings go live.
Getting alerts is free with a member account. When new listings match your saved search, we'll notify you by email and in-app.
Browse other categories
Verified breeders (preview)
Military Macaw key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 50-60 years
- Size
- 70-80cm
- Temperature
- 18〜28℃
- Humidity
- 40〜60%
- Diet
- Pellets, nuts, fruits, vegetables
- Housing
- Large aviary or dedicated bird room needed
- Noise
- Loud vocalizations. Soundproofing measures needed
- Enrichment
- High intelligence requires foraging and training activities
- Notes
- Very destructive. Stainless steel cage recommended
About Military Macaw
The Military Macaw is a large parrot known for its olive-green plumage and red forehead. Highly intelligent and talkative, it lives 50-60 years and calls for advanced-level care and a long-term commitment.
7 things to know before welcoming a Military Macaw
1Needs Plenty of Space
Growing to 70-80cm in length, Military Macaws need a spacious, tall enclosure that lets them fully extend their wings without feeling cramped. Plan for room to add play stands and perches as well.
2Loud Vocalizations
Like most macaws, this species can produce loud, far-carrying calls. If you live in an apartment or close to neighbors, it's worth thinking through soundproofing and noise considerations beforehand.
3Powerful Beak
Their beak is powerful enough to crack hard wood and damage sturdy fittings. Choose durable toys and perches, and learn to handle the bird with a respectful sense of distance.
4Smart, Expressive Nature
Military Macaws are highly intelligent and can learn an impressive vocabulary, but they're also emotionally expressive and may develop problem behaviors when stressed. Consistent daily interaction and a stable environment help keep them content.
5Decades-Long Lifespan
With a lifespan of 50 to 60 years, this is a long-term commitment that may outlast the original owner. It's worth planning ahead for who will care for the bird later in life.
6Advanced-Level Care
Between their size, vocal volume, beak strength, and long lifespan, Military Macaws are generally considered a bird for experienced keepers. First-time large parrot owners should build up knowledge before bringing one home.
7Research Before You Adopt
Talking with experienced keepers or breeders about daily care and housing setup can help you understand what to expect and avoid surprises after adoption.
Frequently asked questions about Military Macaw
- Q.Are they good talkers?
- A.Military Macaws are highly intelligent and considered one of the more talkative macaw species. That said, talking ability varies by individual, and there's no guarantee a bird will learn to speak.
- Q.Are they suitable for beginners?
- A.Given their size, loud calls, powerful beak, and long lifespan, Military Macaws are generally considered a bird for experienced keepers. They're best suited to owners who already have experience with large parrots or have researched thoroughly beforehand.
- Q.Are they subject to CITES?
- A.Military Macaw is listed in CITES Appendix I. In Japan it is an "internationally endangered species" under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, so only registered individuals may be sold or transferred, and the registration certificate goes with the animal. Always check that the certificate is provided.
- Q.How long do they live?
- A.Their lifespan is typically 50 to 60 years, making them one of the longer-lived companion birds. It's worth factoring your own long-term plans into the decision to bring one home.
- Q.How big do they get?
- A.Adults typically reach 70 to 80cm in length. With their wings extended they take up even more space, so it's important to provide a generously sized enclosure.
Useful tools for Military Macaw care
Learn more about Military Macaw in the encyclopedia
View Military Macaw encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
Military Macaw related articles
See more Military Macaw articles →More in this category
Can't find the one you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and breeders with matching animals will contact you with introductions.