The Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is the world's largest flying parrot and one of the most striking birds on Earth. Cobalt blue from head to tail with a vivid yellow facial ring, the Hyacinth commands attention in any room — and its gentle, affectionate temperament makes it one of the most remarkable companion birds available.
The Hyacinth Macaw is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and on CITES Appendix I — the highest protection category. The wild population, centred on the Brazilian Pantanal, has recovered from its nadir in the 1980s (when trapping and habitat loss pushed numbers below 1,500) but remains threatened. All legally traded Hyacinth Macaws must be captive-bred with full documentation. Wild-caught Hyacinths cannot be legally traded.
Despite their intimidating size — up to 100 cm and 1.7 kg, with a beak capable of cracking a coconut — hand-raised Hyacinth Macaws are extraordinarily gentle birds. They take food carefully from fingers, groom their owners with deliberate gentleness, and generally exercise their immense strength with remarkable control. They are described by experienced macaw owners as "big dogs with wings" — loyal, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining.
Hyacinth Macaws are among the most expensive parrots in the world, reflecting their rarity, the complexity of their captive breeding, the cost of their CITES documentation, and their care requirements. The purchase price is only the beginning — their diet, cage, veterinary care, and enrichment represent ongoing significant investment. They are birds for those who have planned carefully and are genuinely prepared for decades of commitment.
Several factors combine: CITES Appendix I status limits legal supply; they are challenging to breed in captivity; clutch sizes are small; and the full documentation process adds significant cost. The purchase price reflects genuine rarity and the complexity of legal captive breeding.
Hyacinths are not renowned talkers — most learn a small vocabulary of 20–30 words. Their communication is primarily through vocalisations, body language, and behaviour rather than speech. Their vocalisations are loud and carry far.
Browse our current availability and get in touch for pricing, delivery timelines, and documentation details.