Certainly the most stunningly coloured large bird that I have ever seen is the Scarlet Macah.

They are native to Central and northern South America.

The Gumbalimba Preservation Park in Roatan, Honduras has a wonderful family of them.

Unfortunately natural disasters, development and poaching have decimated the Scarlet Macah population.

Scarlet Macahs are social birds and exist as monogamous pairs in the wild.

The nesting season is from March through June.

They will lay from 2 – 4 eggs.

Seeds, nuts, fruits and leaves from the rainforest make up the bulk of the Scarlet Macah’s diet.

It’s strong, hooked beak is perfect for breaking nuts and seeds.

Interestingly, the Scarlet Macah can eat seeds which are toxic to other animals.

Scarlet Macahs can live from 50 to 75 years.

Predators are birds of prey and snakes.

Miles Hearn