The Hyacinth Macaw is the largest flying parrot species in the world, admired for its stunning cobalt-blue feathers, powerful beak, and surprisingly gentle personality. Native to South America, this parrot has captured the attention of bird lovers globally — and now, it’s a highly coveted companion in Ajman, Dubai, and throughout the UAE.

At Sahara Exotics, we offer hand-raised Hyacinth Macaws, known for their calm temperament, intelligence, and strong bonds with humans. These birds are ideal for experienced keepers who are ready for a long-term, interactive relationship with one of the most magnificent birds on Earth.

Appearance and Physical Characteristics

The Hyacinth Macaw is an absolute showstopper in both private collections and home aviaries. It features deep, vibrant blue plumage, offset by bright yellow eye rings and a yellow patch around its lower beak, creating a bold and regal appearance.

It grows up to 100 cm in length, with a wingspan of over 120 cm, and can weigh between 1.2 and 1.7 kilograms. Despite its imposing size, it is known for being gentle, affectionate, and sociable.

Their powerful beak is capable of cracking macadamia nuts — and yet, in a trusting home, they use it delicately during interaction with humans.

Personality and Behavior

Hyacinth Macaws are often described as gentle giants. They are incredibly affectionate, emotionally intelligent, and enjoy spending time with their owners. These parrots seek physical contact, often laying their head on your shoulder or asking for scratches.

Though not known for extensive talking like the African Grey, they can mimic sounds and words, and they love to vocalize through whistles, calls, and expressive chatter. Their natural curiosity and problem-solving ability make them highly interactive.

In the UAE, Hyacinth Macaws do best in homes that provide daily social engagement, safe spaces to roam, and mental stimulation through toys and training.

Housing Requirements in the UAE

Because of their size and activity level, Hyacinth Macaws require large, reinforced enclosures. A cage should measure no less than 120 x 150 x 180 cm, and they must be given supervised time outside the cage every day.

Housing considerations:

• Use stainless steel or heavy-duty powder-coated cages

• Include multiple perches and ladders

• Provide large chew toys made of safe wood

• Maintain indoor temperature between 22°C and 28°C

• Avoid high humidity and direct sun exposure in UAE summers

These parrots enjoy structure. Keeping them on a predictable feeding, interaction, and bedtime schedule helps reduce anxiety and stress.

Diet and Nutrition

In the wild, Hyacinth Macaws feed on nuts, fruits, and seeds. To support their energy and feather health in captivity, they require a balanced and specialized diet.

Their UAE feeding plan should include:

• Macaw-specific pellet food (high-fat content)

• Nuts like macadamia, almonds, Brazil nuts (shell-on is preferred)

• Fresh fruits: bananas, apples, pomegranates, papaya

• Vegetables: carrots, leafy greens, sweet potato

• Clean, fresh water available 24/7

Avoid processed foods, chocolate, caffeine, and avocado, as they are toxic to parrots.

Lifespan and Commitment

Hyacinth Macaws are a long-term commitment, with a lifespan of 50 to 70 years or more in a well-managed home. They form deep emotional bonds with their caregivers and may show signs of distress if neglected or left alone for extended periods.

These parrots are best suited for homes that:

• Offer daily interaction and enrichment

• Have space and time for free-flight or supervised play

• Understand the bird’s emotional and dietary needs

• Have previous experience with large parrots (ideal but not mandatory)

At Sahara Exotics, our Hyacinth Macaws are hand-fed and trained from a young age to adapt well to domestic life in the UAE. We also offer guidance on handling, cage setup, feeding, and bonding.