Macaws are large, colorful parrots that are native to Central and South America. They are highly intelligent, social birds that can learn to talk and mimic sounds. Macaws are popular exotic pets, but they require specialized care and can live 50 years or more.Buying a pet macaw in Australia can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 AUD depending on the species, age, hand-taming status and breeder. The most common pet macaws found in Australia include:
Blue and Gold Macaw
The blue and gold macaw has green shoulders, blue wings and tail, a blue back and a yellow chest. It is one of the larger macaw species reaching up to 1 m (3.3 ft) long. These birds are devoted partners and family members in the wild. Captive blue and gold macaws have a lifespan of 30 to 35 years.
Price range: $1,500 – $3,000 AUD
Scarlet Macaw
With bright red, yellow and blue plumage, the scarlet macaw is a stunning, large parrot. They are around 80 to 90 cm long (2.5 to 3 ft). Scarlet macaws are considered to have a gentle personality and be one of the quieter large macaws. Their expected lifespan in captivity is 40 to 50 years.
Price range: $1,500 – $4,000 AUD
Green-Winged Macaw
The green-winged macaw has bright red plumage on most of its body, contrasting with green wings. They are medium-sized macaws reaching 60 to 75 cm (2 to 2.5 ft) in length. These macaws can be vocal but also affectionate and playful when well socialized. They have a lifespan around 30 years as pets.
Price range: $1,000 – $2,000 AUD
Hyacinth Macaw
Known as the “gentle giant” of the macaw family, the hyacinth macaw is the largest parrot in the world. They have bright cobalt blue feathers over most of their body and a yellow ring around their eyes. Hyacinth macaws reach up to 1 m (3.3 ft) in length. They are exceptionally intelligent and can live up to 50 years with proper care in captivity.
Price range: $12,000 – $16,000 AUD
What impacts the price of pet macaws in Australia?
Several factors influence how much macaws cost from breeders in Australia:
- Species – Larger and rarer macaw species are more expensive, such as hyacinth macaws.
- Age – Baby macaws hand-fed from a young age generally cost more than older birds.
- Taming & Training – Macaws that are well-socialized and trained will be priced higher.
- Breeder Reputation – Established, experienced breeders often charge more for birds than new breeders.
- Location – Prices vary in different regions of Australia based on availability.
- Supply & Demand – Macaw pricing fluctuates based on current supply and popularity as pets.
- Time of Year – Prices can be lower in non-summer seasons when breeding activity is reduced.
Blue and Gold Macaw Price Factors
For the blue and gold macaw, the typical price range is $1,500 to $3,000 AUD. Here are some specifics that affect pricing:
- Babies: $2,500 – $3,000
- Juveniles: $2,000 – $2,500
- Well-socialized: +$500 premium
- Talking ability: +$200 premium
- Trained behaviors: +$500-$1,000 premium
- Proven breeding history: +$500 premium
Where to buy macaws in Australia:
Here are some options for finding captive-bred pet macaws in Australia:
- Specialized bird breeders – Many macaw breeding experts operate around Australia. Search for “macaw breeders [your state]”.
- Bird auctions – Exotic bird auctions are held periodically in some Australian cities.
- Pet shops – Some large pet stores carry macaws, often sourced from breeders.
- Online & social media – Check sites like Gumtree, Facebook groups and breeder websites for listings.
- Bird clubs & shows – Australian bird clubs and exhibitions are great for meeting breeders.
- Classified ads – Look for macaws in classifieds sections of newspapers and magazines.
When inquiring with sellers, be sure to ask about the macaw’s age, history, health, training and personality. Examine the bird carefully for any signs of plucking, illness or stress. Reputable breeders will welcome questions and provide veterinary records.
Importing macaws from overseas
It is also possible to import captive-bred macaws to Australia from other countries. However, strict quarantine regulations apply:
- Macaws can only be imported from approved countries like the United States and Canada.
- An import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is required.
- Upon arrival, birds must undergo a minimum 30 day quarantine period at a licensed quarantine facility to screen for diseases.
- Professional importers can assist with meeting requirements, permits and quarantine.
- Shipping costs, quarantine fees and import permit fees apply, increasing total costs.
Is it legal to keep a macaw in Australia?
It is legal to keep macaws as pets in Australia with the proper licenses. Here are the main requirements:
- Protected macaw species like hyacinth and green-winged macaws require a Class C license from the national Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.
- In some Australian states like New South Wales, a basic animal keeper’s license is needed to own any exotic bird.
- Macaws imported from overseas require a valid import permit.
- Check your specific state or territory legislation for local exotic pet ownership laws.
- Certain local councils may prohibit or restrict keeping macaws based on noise and other concerns – verify rules with your council first.
When researching macaws, consult with experienced avian vets to ensure you can properly care for one of these high-maintenance birds. Never release a pet macaw into the wild – they are a potential invasive species threat in Australia. Only reputable breeders should supply macaws, not illegal poachers removing them from at risk wild populations.
Caring for pet macaws in Australia
Here are some key elements of properly caring for a pet macaw in Australia:
- Housing: A spacious aviary or cage, ideally with access for supervised time out of cage daily. Minimum dimensions are around 1.5m x 1.5m x 2m (l x w x h).
- Diet: A balanced pelleted diet with nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables. Fresh clean water always available.
- Enrichment: Provide large sturdy toys, swings, branches and puzzles. Rotate new toys regularly to prevent boredom.
- Companionship: Macaws are flock birds and need daily interaction. They will bond very closely with owners.
- Vet checks: Annual exams, plus immediate vet visits for any signs of injury or illness.
- Grooming: Trim wing feathers every few months to prevent flight, and bathe monthly.
- Permitting: Obtain all required exotic pet and wildlife licenses. Use leg bands for ID.
Owning a macaw is a long-term commitment. They require time, space, specialized care and are noisy. But for experienced bird lovers, macaws can make exceptionally engaging, intelligent and affectionate pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are macaws legal to own in Australia?
Yes, it is legal to own a pet macaw in Australia with the proper licensing. Certain protected macaw species require a Class C license. Some states or councils may have additional exotic pet restrictions.
What’s the cheapest macaw species to buy in Australia?
The green-winged macaw is typically the most affordable pet macaw species in Australia, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 AUD usually.
Can I buy a macaw from overseas and bring to Australia?
Macaws can only be imported to Australia from specific approved countries and require 30+ days of quarantine plus import permits. The total cost will exceed local prices.
How much space does a pet macaw need?
Macaws should be housed in very large cages, preferably aviaries. Minimum dimensions would be around 1.5m x 1.5m x 2m (length x width x height). They need room to spread their wings.
Do macaws make good pets?
Macaws can make excellent pets for the right owners willing to meet their specialized care needs. They require lots of time, space, training and enrichment. Macaws bond very closely with their owners.
Conclusion
From $1,000 to $16,000 AUD or more, macaws are expensive exotic birds to buy upfront in Australia. But the real investment for these 50+ year parrots is the cost of proper lifetime care and commitment. With the right avian vet care, huge aviaries, enrichment and owner interaction, macaws can become cherished lifelong pets for experienced owners.