Abstract
Eight species of macaw (Psittacidae: Anodorhynchus, Ara, Primolius) have previously been reported from Paraguay. We discuss all verifiable reports of the species from Paraguay and provide comment on their statuses. Ara chloropterus and Primolius auricollis are both widespread species known from multiple reports across a wide geographic area. We report minor range extensions within Paraguay for both species. Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus is documented as a breeding resident with a restricted distribution in the Upper Paraguay River basin. The first modern records of Ara ararauna and the first record of Diopsittaca nobilis for the country are documented with photographs. We are unable to find any confirmed records of Anodorhynchus glaucus from Paraguay and thus consider it of possible occurrence. Two species are rejected as erroneously cited, Ara militaris and Ara glaucogularis. Consequently six species in four genera are now confirmed to occur in Paraguay.
Highlights
Though not a monophyletic taxonomic group (Tavares et al, 2006), macaws are recognizable amongst the Psittacids because of their large size, long tails, colourful plumage and areas of bare skin on the head (Juniper & Parr, 1998)
In this paper we review the status and distribution of Paraguayan macaws, and document for the first time the presence of a fourth genus, Diopsittaca, in the north east of the country
Munn et al (1987), apparently speculatively, estimated that the population in Paraguay consisted of just a single pair, and López (1989) hinted at new records of the species in Concepción department
Summary
Though not a monophyletic taxonomic group (Tavares et al, 2006), macaws are recognizable amongst the Psittacids because of their large size, long tails, colourful plumage and areas of bare skin on the head (Juniper & Parr, 1998). These characteristics make macaws highly desirable for the pet trade, and on a global scale the populations of many species are in sharp decline (Ridgely, 1981; Inskipp et al, 1988). Two further species in the genus Ara have featured in the Paraguayan literature, but these are generally accepted to be in error. In this paper we review the status and distribution of Paraguayan macaws, and document for the first time the presence of a fourth genus, Diopsittaca, in the north east of the country
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