Which rainforest parrot is the world’s largest flying parrot?

The hyacinth macaw is the world’s largest flying parrot, with striking cobalt-blue plumage and a powerful black bill.

Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus is native to central and eastern South America. It occurs in several habitats, including the Amazon Basin, the Pantanal, and dry woodland regions. Its body can measure about 1 metre from head to tail, although much of that length comes from its long tail feathers. The species is smaller in mass than the flightless kakapo, so “largest flying parrot” is the precise distinction.

Hyacinth macaws feed mainly on hard palm nuts, especially those of acuri and bocaiuva palms. Their robust bills can crack these shells. They nest in tree cavities and sometimes use cavities in large palms or cliffs. Habitat loss and historic trapping for the pet trade reduced populations, but conservation programs and legal protection have helped support recovery in parts of its range.