Macaws of Costa Rica: Scarlet Macaw & Great Green Macaw

Brilliantly colored and impossible to miss when in flight, the Macaws are the largest-sized members of the parrot family. Despite their beautiful plumage, you can also recognize these birds, often before you even see them, by the shrill and very unique squawk sound they make. They're one of Costa Rica's most iconic sounds and sights!

Of the 17 species that reside in Central and South America, only two species—the Scarlet Macaw and the Great Green Macaw—call Costa Rica home. Although they are family, the chance to see them together is very rare as the slightly smaller Scarlet Macaw is commonly found on the Pacific coast with the Great Green Macaw preferring the Caribbean.