Scarlet Macaws

These are Scarlet Macaws, painted by Ken Gibson of New York. Lots of these in fact in that city,
but they are native to Central and South America, especially Bolivia. In some parts of Mexico and Central America they have been driven to the point of extinction.
There are two subspecies, Ara macao macao, pictured here, and A. m. caynoptera.
The latter is believed to have more blue on the tips of the yellow wing feathers, but that may not
be as definitive as some are inclined to believe.
At one point buyers prefered 'Bolivians' - so much so that Bolivian dealers bought from Colombia
and relabeled as 'Bolivian'.
There are also orangey individuals, once sold as a subspecies, but now known to be late in the season
birds whose plumage has been affected by the sun. Very spectacular effect - known as 'Tangerine'
macaws.
Best to see these in the wild! Flocks of over 100 can be seen in the Bolivian jungles, feeding on the fruits and nuts high up in the canopy.
Bolivia is home to more species of macaw than any other country.