Two of the world’s most endangered parrots have been united as part of a breeding program to help save the beautiful species from extinction.
The pair of red-fronted macaws have arrived at Twycross Zoo in Leicester, England, with the hope they will “fall in love” and breed—adding to the total number of fewer than 300 remaining in the wild.
Native to Bolivia, the macaws are one of the most endangered species of parrot on the planet, currently listed as “critically endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
The bird donations from the Welsh Mountain Zoo and Edinburgh Zoo were arranged as part of a European conservation program that called it an “important milestone” in their global effort.
Assistant bird curator Rhys McKie was previously working at Edinburgh Zoo when one of the macaws was hatched there last year.
“It’s always an exciting day when a new animal arrives at the zoo but being reunited was a really special moment.
“When he hatched it was the first time in over 15 years that the species had been successfully bred at the zoo.
“So, to now give him a home at Twycross Zoo where he will continue the conservation journey and hopefully breed more of this rare species, is very momentous for me.”
The species stands out for their bright red forehead of feathers and long blue-green tail.
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In the wild, these parrots can only be found in a small semi-desert, mountainous region of Bolivia, making them unique amongst macaws.
In this arid climate, the birds feed on desert plants like cactus and are one of the main seed dispersers for the plant.
“I’m looking forward to our visitors getting the chance to see them together—and our other stunning parrot species—in our parrot habitat.”
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Dr Rebecca Biddle, director of conservation at Twycross Zoo, added: “I’m so proud to see Twycross Zoo leading the way for the conservation of this incredibly important species.
“Bringing this pair to Twycross to hopefully facilitate breeding further down the line, is a necessary and important step to save this species.”
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