Red-bellied Macaw Orthopsittaca manilata

The Red-bellied Macaw lives in flocks over much of north and north-western South America where Moriche Palms grow. It is the only bird in its genus.

The largest of the small macaws group, it has bare yellow facial skin and light blue with green plumage.

The Red-bellied Macaw is wholly dependent on the moriche palms for food (palm nuts), for nesting material and nest holes. The high beta-carotene in the palm nuts contributes to the yellow skin. Their population has declined where the palms have been cleared.

In captivity it has learnt to enjoy peanuts but it needs a specialised diet and most do not do well in captivity.