The status and conservation of the Blue-throated Macaw Ara glaucogularis

Abstract

The conservation status of the Blue-throated Macaw Ara glaucogularis, a Bolivian endemic, is assessed using the most recent information available. The known range of the species is patchily distributed within an 8,600 km2 area of lowland savanna-forest habitat in the Beni department, under private ownership for cattle ranching, which is the main form of land use in the region. Population surveys of the Blue-throated Macaw revealed this species to exist in very low numbers. The immediate threat to the species is illegal trapping for the live bird trade. Effects of cattle grazing and savanna burning may modify habitat characteristics, but there is no direct evidence suggesting that these factors negatively influence the ecological requirements of Ara glaucogularis. The species is highly associated with the Attalea phalerata palm, which it uses for feeding and nesting. Current conservation efforts include: population and distribution surveys and assessment of habitat requirements; environmental awareness targeted at landowners and ranch personnel; collaboration with subnational and central government bodies; and development of strategies to curtail parrot trafficking activities. Recommendations for the long-term conservation of the species include increasing the involvement of landowners to strengthen protection for wild macaws; working with the Bolivian government on strategies to curb macaw trafficking; increasing environmental education activities with local inhabitants; basic research on breeding requirements and limitations of wild Blue-throated Macaws; and investigating the application of private reserves to the Blue-throated Macaw range.