Parrot Hut - Hahn's Macaw & Noble Macaw

Hahn's Macaw & Noble Macaw

Originally from South America, these two closely related subspecies are a favorite of macaw fanciers due to their compact size, intelligence, and superb pet quality. Though they are not as flashy as their larger cousins, the Hahn's and the Noble Macaws (Ara nobilis nobilis & Ara nobilis cumanensis) are highly prized for their "large macaw" personality in a mini macaw body. They are easier to find than some of the other macaw species, especially the Hahn's, which is a favorite of breeders - the space it takes to breed these birds is far less than with the much larger macaws.

The smallest of the miniature macaws, both the Hahn's and the Noble are primarily green with a fleshy white face-patch. The Noble is slightly larger than the Hahn's, though both birds are smaller than some of the larger conure species, and can easily be mistaken for a conure by a novice. These birds are between 12 and 14 inches long, making them a good apartment bird - but only if your neighbors are deaf. These are noisy birds, especially if you have more than one. Their voices are grating - they are not the most pleasant sounding birds in the parrot family. These birds are wonderful talkers, however, and will learn many words and phrases. They are good whistlers too, but may take to whistling over talking, so teach them to talk before you give whistling lessons.

Like their larger relatives, the Hahn's and the Noble are very intelligent and are quick to learn vocalizations and tricks - like opening the cage door. When hand-raised, both of these birds make wonderful pets, and owners will be charmed by their antics - they are active birds, always on the look out for something fun to chew or climb on - watch out for your furniture and drapes. These mini macaws are far more appropriate for children than a larger macaw is - they are easier to handle because of their smaller size, and their sweet temperament makes them less prone to nipping. However, take caution where birds are children are concerned - there is always the potential for injury on both sides.

As with any other bird, the Hahn's and the Noble need a well-balanced, nutritious diet to survive, the lack of which will greatly reduce its lifespan. These birds need space and exercise, and will become overweight if confined for too many hours a day. Remember, too, that macaws are extremely intelligent birds and need a lot of stimulation to maintain a healthy attitude - a depressed or unhappy macaw can develop neurosis and self-mutilating disorders. These birds are reported to live for more than 40-50 years if cared-for properly.