Pixie Mini Macaw
They are easily trained and are rarely aggressive. They do best when handled regularly and are able to mimic words.
Macaws eat a diet of pellets, fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as seeds. They also require a few wooden perches to climb and chew.
Macaws tend to develop a dominant streak when they first move into an unfamiliar environment. To prevent this, an avian behaviorist and a veterinarian should be advised.
Training
Macaws are intelligent birds that thrive when handled regularly, provided with stimulation and exercise, and with constant attention. They love to play, explore their surroundings, and manipulate objects. They often love being hugged or "skritched" when they trust the person they are with.
Macaws that are not properly handled can become territorial, aggressive or destructive. People who are bored may also resort to feather-picking as a way of self-mutilation. To stop boredom, give plenty of textured toys and numerous perches. Utilizing toys that simulate preening is a great way to prevent boredom induced feather destruction. If you notice these behavior then consult an experienced vet or avian behaviorist.
Young hand-raised macaws adjust well to new surroundings and are trained. Introduce them to new people, car trips and hospital visits as well as other pets (including dogs and cats) and other birds at an early age. They are easily imprinted and require constant care from a young age to avoid developing bonds with one person. When this happens, these parrots often yell to be noticed and could even begin to bite. Discipline and leadership, patience, hooding (covering the head) and a sense of ritual are crucial in changing these behaviors.
As adults, larger macaws, such as the Blue & Gold, Scarlet, Military, and Hyacinth are more likely to suffer from behavioral problems. Hormonal imbalances and drastic changes in the environment, a insufficient stimulation for the mind and poor diet can lead to depression and aggression. If not taken care of the issues could turn into serious health problems for the parrot and a difficult situation for the owner.
Mini macaws are a little more docile than larger macaws and are typically able to learn basic words, tricks and basic obedience commands. They will not, however, connect as easily with their owners. They rarely snuggle close to them or lick their. To establish a bond, spend several hours every day with your bird outside of their cage and talk to them in a reassuring tone to help them get used to your voice. Once you have a relationship you can help your bird to jump onto your finger and learn to interact with others in a safe environment.
Care
Macaws require interaction with their humans. They are social and intelligent birds. They are prone to boredom and depression if they don't get enough time with their friends. A macaw suffering from depression may self-mutilate, pulling out its feathers. This can be dangerous.
To prevent these problems early socialization and education is vital. It is recommended that macaws be handled on a regular basis to improve the bond between it and its owner, improve general health, and allow an easy examination of the bird's body for injuries or abnormalities. Macaws can also be destructive, so owners should give their pets plenty of toys that are heavy duty to keep them away from furniture made of wood and other items that are tempting around the home.
Regularly trim the macaw's nail. This makes it easier to handle the bird and makes it more difficult for the nails to get stuck in things such as caging and toys. Short nails also help keep the bird healthy and clean.
The size of the cage for a macaw is very crucial, as these huge birds require lots of space to fly and exercise. It is recommended that the cage is at least 3 feet wide and 2 feet deep and 6 feet tall. These large birds must be able to spread their wings while in flight, and have space for toys, climbing, and perching.
Offering your macaw a variety of foraging chewable rope, chewable wood toys and puzzles that are easy to take apart, and mechanical toys is an excellent way to give your pet daily stimulation. Offering a variety of branches for your macaw to climb up and hide in is another way to enrich your pet's physical health.
If your macaw acts oddly, is gasping for air, or is fluffed-up and lethargic, it could be trying lay an egg. The eggs can put pressure on the nerves controlling the legs, which can cause self-mutilation and paralysis. If you notice this behavior, please contact your veterinarian or animal emergency clinic.
Feeding
Macaws are omnivores. As such, they will enjoy eating fruits and vegetables as a part of their diet. They can also eat pellets, nuts, and commercial food for parrots.
They'll need to be offered various meals on a regular basis to ensure that their diet is balanced. Smaller birds consume less food than their larger counterparts so owners won't need to make as many trips to pet stores. This could save money, and that's always a good thing!
The Hahn's Macaw is a great talker, with a loud and brief call they use to locate other members of their flock. They also make loud contact calls that can be a bit disturbing and they may call to their owner when they feel nervous or scared.
A good idea is to get your macaw used to being brushed all over from a young age, especially behind the head and beneath the wings. They are awestruck by being loved and are awed by attention! To ensure that your bird is healthy, you must perform annual health checks. This is the ideal moment to check your bird for fecal and parasites, as well as fecal tests and other health issues.
If you are considering getting a macaw, you will need to have an enclosure that is at minimum 36" by 24" x 24." This will give your macaw room to move around and stretch out in. They should be able to exercise their natural energy to stay healthy and happy.
The cage must be well ventilated and include a variety of perches to give the bird options. Offering the macaw a variety of ways to let off their energy will keep them from becoming stressed and bored. They are very active in the wild and require to be able release their energy in the comfort of their homes.
Adolescent hormones pose a major issue for these birds. As they grow older they may behave like teenagers and become very irritable. This can be a challenge for the new owners of a parrot as they learn to live with their pet. The best approach is to be patient and encourage their positive behavior.
Health
Macaws are sociable birds that enjoy playing and bonding with their owners. They are intelligent birds that can learn to communicate effectively. They can be a great companion for 45 to 50 years. However, they can turn unsocialized if they are not socialized early and can be difficult to deal with when handled improperly or not properly. The species will be content and make a great pet when you train it and give it lots of love and attention.
Hahn's miniature macaws offer all the excitement and joy of large macaws, but in a smaller size. They are affectionate and love to cuddle however they don't tend to bite or nip as frequently as larger macaws. They are very active little acrobats, but can be tranquil and peaceful as well. They are an excellent option for those looking to get a Macaw but don't have the space for a larger bird.
The chestnut-fronted macaw can also be known as the severe macaw, and is one of the largest mini macaw breeds. It is green with patches of blue and red on the wings. The head is covered with the chestnut-brown color with black feathers above its eyes. The chestnut-fronted macaw is aggressive during puberty, and this can be a problem in the cage. This bird responds well to regular handling and is eager to learn new things.
Macaws don't tend to be territorial, however they may become aggressive when their surroundings become too busy or stressful. If this happens, it's recommended that you put the bird in a more private area until they settle down. A veterinarian can give your bird a thorough physical exam to determine the health of their eyes, ears, heart, lungs and coelom. A stool sample can also be taken to check for parasites.
Your macaw will need to be wormed on a regular basis Make sure to have an wormer like Worm-Away available from Birdsville. You should also change the water in the cage on a regular basis and ensure that it has best place to buy macaw sufficient fresh air. Keep the cage out of direct sunlight as it could cause the parrot to get sick.