Scarlet Macaw

A magnificent large parrot characterized by brilliant red, yellow, and blue plumage. This feather is a primary wing feather, which bears the scarlet hue that gives the bird its name. In flight, these birds are loud and conspicuous, often seen in pairs or small family groups.

Brilliant deep red to scarlet on the inner and outer vanes; the outer edge of the leading vane shows a dark, almost blackish-brown tint. The underside is a duller, more matte red. Typical of an adult bird.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the majority of the vane for aerodynamic flight; plumulaceous (downy) barbs present only at the very base near the calamus.

Thick, sturdy rachis that transitions from translucent/white at the calamus to a dark reddish-brown/black along the length of the vane; barbs are densely packed at an acute angle.

Smooth, glossy, and very stiff. The surface has a waxy feel typical of birds in humid tropical environments, providing water resistance and structural integrity.

Outer wing (Primary). The extreme asymmetry and curvature identify it as a primary feather designed for the powerful thrust required by a large parrot.

Intense scarlet-red coloration, extreme asymmetry of the vane, and a dark, rigid rachis. The size and stiffness are diagnostic for a large 'Ara' genus macaw.

Tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, woodlands, and humid lowlands. Often found near rivers and coastal areas.

Native to Central and South America, from south-eastern Mexico to Amazonian Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.

Important seed predators and occasional seed dispersers; they help maintain forest diversity by spreading seeds of large tropical fruits.

Green-winged Macaw (Ara chloropterus) feathers are similar but usually a deeper, darker crimson. Blue-and-yellow Macaw primaries are entirely blue.

Scarlet Macaws can live up to 75 years in captivity and are known for their ability to use their beaks as a 'third foot' while climbing trees. They are one of the most intelligent bird species.

Historically significant to Mayan and Aztec civilizations where they symbolized the sun. Feathers were used in elaborate headdresses and are still used in some indigenous South American rituals.

Look for these beneath fruiting trees or known clay licks. In the wild, they are most often found after the annual molt in early to mid-summer.

Good to Fair; there is some separation of the barbs (splits) along the trailing edge and significant wear/damage to the calamus (quill), suggesting it may have been found on the ground or handled.