Catalina Macaw
KINGDOM: Animalia
PHYLUM: Chordata
CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Psittaciformes
FAMILY: Psittacidae
GENUS: Ara
SPECIES: Macao X Ararauna
POPULATION SIZE: Not found in the wild
LIFE SPAN: 60+ YRS
WEIGHT: 1000-1500 G
LENGTH: 75-90 CM
About the
Catalina Macaw
This breed was formed by crossing a blue and gold macaw with a scarlet macaw. Catalina macaws are found mainly in captivity. You seldom find a naturally bred Catalina macaw in the wild.
In bird breeding and hybridization, the father’s genes are most often dominant. Catalina macaws most often look like scarlet macaws, since the male is usually a scarlet.
The Catalina is considered a first-generation macaw hybrid. It was derived from two naturally occurring or “true” birds. Since this is such a beautiful bird, some breeders use it for breeding a number of second-generation hybrid macaws (those from at least one hybrid bird). It is also rather common to find second-generation Catalinas that are a cross between two Catalina parents.
Catalina Macaw
Colors And Markings
In general, hybrid macaws are bred primarily for their color traits. The Catalina macaw has a wide range of colors and patterns. There are slight differences from one generation to the next as well.
Most of these birds are primarily red or deep orange on their chests and bellies. Some have brilliant red-orange heads while others have a gorgeous blue-green crown. They tend to have green and blue feathers running down their backs and long tails. Many of them have gold feathers edging their wings and their tails.
The Catalina looks similar to the harlequin macaw. The two hybrids are often mistaken for one another. The most significant difference is the Catalina usually has the long, tapering tail of the scarlet.
There is no noticeable difference between male and female Catalina macaws. To tell them apart, you will need a DNA test, chromosomal test, or surgical sexing procedure. The DNA test is the most noninvasive option.
