Severe Macaw

Ara severus

The severe macaw, Ara severus, is a medium-sized macaw from tropical forests, woodland edges, and river corridors in Central and South America. Also called the chestnut-fronted macaw, it is mostly green with a chestnut forehead, blue flight feathers, and red patches near the bend of the wing. Its smaller size makes it more manageable than the largest macaws, but its beak, voice, intelligence, and social needs are still very much macaw-level.

Severe macaws kept as companions need durable housing, daily interaction, supervised flight or exercise, varied foraging, and steady training that channels chewing and vocal behavior. Pair birds require nest security and privacy, while single birds often struggle if they are left without enrichment. Buyers and adopters should look for clear age, health, and source information, because a severe macaw can live for decades and may pass through several homes if expectations are unrealistic.