Spix's Macaw Cyanopsitta spixii

Spix's Macaw used to be native to the Caatinga dry forest region of northeast Brazil but this beautiful blue parrot became extinct in the wild in the early 21st century due mainly to deforestation in its limited range (and its dependence on limited species of trees/shrubs for food and nesting). In 1990, there were 15 Spix's Macaws known in captivity plus one wild male.

Efforts are now being made for conservation breeding of captive birds for potential release in the wild when conditions allow and for habitat restoration. They take a long time to pair and breed and genetic diversity and fertility is low. A small captive-bred flock was released in 2022.

Plumage of both male and female adults is mid-blue with a lighter blue, turquoise, light grey or whitish head. Facial skin is dark grey (juveniles: light grey). Typical length is some 55cm, much smaller than the large Macaws, including Lear's, but larger than the small macaws.