Blue-and-gold Macaw

I hadn't seen Sweet Pea, a Blue-and-gold Macaw, for a number of years, but finally happened to be over there a few days ago. Very popular as pets (though I would much prefer to know that they are flying free than in a cage in someone's home!). With care, these birds may live a human life span (60+ years).

"Ara ararauna, sometimes also called the Blue & Yellow Macaw or Blue-and-gold Macaw, is a native of a wide region of South America, almost the entire northern half of the continent. They are primarily forest and rainforest birds in their natural setting, often congregating in large flocks, though usually paired up with a mate or buddy. The species is still relatively plentiful through much of its home range, though deforestation is taking its toll on the overall numbers of these magnificent birds. It has disappeared from some parts of its original range. However, the Blue & Gold Macaw has been bred domestically in the United States and other countries for well over three decades. Most pet Blue & Golds are likely fifth to tenth (or more) generation "Americans." From www.petstation.com/bgmacaw1.html."

birds.about.com/od/macaws/p/blueandgold.htm