We are helping the endangered Lear’s macaw
The Caatinga region in the state of Bahia, Brazil, is the last home of the Lear’s macaw (Anodorhynchus leari). Today, this rare species survives only in a very limited area due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Thanks to breeding in human care, subsequent reintroduction, conservation activities, and environmental education, the population of Lear’s macaws has increased from just 60 pairs to more than a thousand individuals.
At first glance, the Lear’s macaw resembles the hyacinth macaw, but it is about a quarter smaller, its plumage is less uniformly blue, and the yellow bare skin at the base of the beak is rounded rather than stripe-shaped. Photo: Petr Hamerník
However, another problem has recently come to light: emerging conflicts between wild birds and local people. As natural landscapes are converted into agricultural land, the parrots come into increasingly close contact with local communities. During their playful behavior, Lear’s macaws damage crops as well as irrigation systems, causing significant financial losses for farmers.
In 2026, Prague Zoo will support educational campaigns for local residents aimed at building a more positive relationship with this endangered species. At the same time, plans include supporting the restoration and improvement of irrigation systems for the most affected farmers and offering alternative livelihood options.
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