Abstract
From 1993 to 1997, we observed Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) feeding behavior in Central Pacific Costa Rica. Feeding data acquired in this study were not collected systematically, but opportunistically whenever macaws were observed feeding. To supplement feeding observations, we conducted interviews with local residents. Scarlet Macaws fed on seeds, fruits, leaves, flowers and/or bark of 43 plant species. Various plant parts eaten by macaws from several tree species contain secondary compounds toxic to humans, and additional species included in their diet are nonnative, introduced for agricultural purposes. Important macaw feeding tree species are Ceiba pentandra, Schizolobium parahybum, and Hura crepitans; these species are also crucial to this macaw population because of nest cavities they provide. The results of this study contribute to the conservation of Scarlet Macaws in Central Pacific Costa Rica through promoting protection of individual trees, and through local elementary school reforestation programs focusing on tree species that macaws use for feeding and/or nesting. Scarlet Macaw conservation is extremely important, as numerous population pressures have caused significant declines in macaw numbers in Costa Rica.
Highlights
Scarlet Macaws Ara macao are classified as threatened (Appendix I) under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
Observations occurred during peak Scarlet Macaw feeding hours, which took place immediately after early morning movements from Guacalillo Mangrove Reserve (0630-0800 h), and just prior to return flights to roosting sites (1500-1700 h) (Marineros and Vaughan 1995)
From a total of 160 feeding observations, Scarlet Macaws fed on 43 different plant species (41 trees, one bromeliad, and one orchid) (Table 1)
Summary
Scarlet Macaws Ara macao are classified as threatened (Appendix I) under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Scarlet Macaw numbers have declined throughout its range because of habitat loss, direct hunting, and capture for the pet trade (Forshaw 1989, Vaughan et al 1991, Wiedenfeld 1994, IñigoElías 1996). In Costa Rica, Scarlet Macaws once resided on both the Pacific and Caribbean slopes between sea level and approximately 1 500 m elevation (Vaughan 1983). While macaw species are known to feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetable matter (Forshaw 1989), information on the food habits of Scarlet Macaws are scarce (Munn 1988, Marineros and Vaughan 1995, Nycander et al 1995, Gilardi 1996, Iñigo-Elías 1996). The objective of this study was to document Scarlet Macaw diet in Central Pacific Costa Rica
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