Macaws Of A Different Color

There's an email discussion going on today within the LAS as to whether we should accept a Harlequin Macaw as a raffle gift. The thought being that the LAS does not support the hybridization of sub-species of any bird.

In the 70's and 80's breeders started cross-breeding Macaws and created what I call "Designer Macaws". Many of these bonded pairs are still around and producing babies. The Harlequin pair mentioned above have been together for decades. I personally don't think they should be separated. I also don't think that breeders should be encouraged to do this anymore.

I'm much more concerned that the bird we raffle off go to a good home where it will live out its life in a loving and nurturing environment.

For those of you who have never heard of hybrid Macaws, here's a breakdown:

Hybrid Macaws:
Blue & Gold x Scarlet = Catalina
Blue & Gold x Greenwing = Harlequin
Scarlet x Greenwing = Ruby
Scarlet x Military = Shamrock
Scarlet x Buffons = Verde
Greenwing x Military = Calico
Greenwing x Buffons = Buffwing
Military x Buffons = Miliffons
Military x Blue & Gold = Miligold
Hyacinth x Buffons = Emerald
Catalina x Greenwing = Flame
Catalina x Scarlet = Camelot
Camelot x Scarlet = Capri
Calico x Greenwing = Cameo

- posted by J-Birds @ 3:24 PM |