Chestnut-fronted Macaw aka Severe Macaw (Ara severus)

The Chestnut-fronted Macaw or Severe Macaw (Ara severus) is one of the largest of the mini-macaws. It reaches a size of around 45 cm (18 in) of which around half is the length of the tail.  I remember the time I first saw one at Cristalino.  I had been watching some other birds and the guide (knowing I was interested in parrots) tapped my shoulder and quietly said “Chestnut-fronted Macaws”.  I followed him to a large tree and looked up just in time to see the bird fly through the trees and disappear.  At least I got a quick glimpse!  But since I didn’t get a photo, Wikipedia has to come through.

ChF Macaw ChF Macaw1

They do have a large range in South America and besides Cristalino, I have another chance to see them in Ecuador soon!

ChF Macaw2

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHESTNUT-FRONTED MACAWS

Wikipedia

World Parrot Trust

Birdlife

Neotropical Birds

VIDEOS

Beautiful close-up foraging in a tree.

Huge flock in Brazil