Its dramatic size, long, graceful tail, and bold colors draws many would-be parrot owners to the macaw. However, this bird's powerful lungs, beak and need for attention can make it a challenging parrot to keep. The best-known are the blue-and-gold (ara ararauna) macaw and the rarer scarlet (Ara macao) macaw, often displayed in zoos, animal parks and tropical-themed hotels and other establishments. But there are over 15 species of macaws in all, ranging from the pint-size green Hahn's (Ara nobilis) and severe (Ara severa) "mini-macaws" to the hyacinth (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), the largest parrot in the world. Lear's (Anodorhynchus leari) and blue-throated (Ara glaucogularis) macaws are rare, but the Spix's (Cyanopsitta spixii) macaw is closest to extinction. The last wild Spix vanished last year, leaving a few dozen left in captivity. 

Countries of origin: Mostly South America. Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Surinam, Trinidad, Venezuela. Size: All macaws have long tails and a distinctive bald face patch. The smallest species, the Hahn's, measures no longer than a cockatiel at 12 inches, but weighs almost twice as much at up to 165 grams. The severe, the other most commonly kept small macaw, is next in size at 18 inches and 360 grams. The blue-and-gold macaw, scarlet and green-winged (Ara chloroptera) macaws are among the largest parrots, at around 34 inches and up to 1100 grams. However, the king of macaws and all parrots is the beautiful cobalt-blue hyacinth, which measures up to 40 inches long and weighs up to 1450 grams, or over three pounds. 

Personality: Playful, highly intelligent, voracious chewers can be very destructive. Beak is capable of inflicting deep and painful bites. Among the most raucous of parrots, capable of ear-splitting screeches, but generally does not scream habitually. Scarlet’s are reputed to behave the least predictably; blue-and-gold’s and hyacinths are considered the gentlest. Mini-macaws are the easiest to train and handle. 

Talking ability: Moderate to good. 

Average lifespan: 80 years or more.