Scarlet Macaw – Costa Rica Birding Guide
Scarlet Macaw – Costa Rica’s Most Spectacular Parrot
The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is one of the most iconic birds in the Americas. With its brilliant red, yellow, and blue plumage, this large parrot is a must-see for any birder visiting Costa Rica.
See also our Tortuguero National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our Palo Verde National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our San Gerardo de Dota – Birding Guide guide. See also our Scarlet Macaw Costa Rica: Where to Find & Photograph Them guide. See also our Great Green Macaw – Costa Rica Birding Guide guide.
See also our Tortuguero National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our Palo Verde National Park – Birding Guide guide. See also our San Gerardo de Dota – Birding Guide guide. See also our Scarlet Macaw Costa Rica: Where to Find & Photograph Them guide. See also our Great Green Macaw – Costa Rica Birding Guide guide.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Ara macao
- Family: Psittacidae (Parrots)
- Size: 80-90 cm (31-35 in)
- Conservation Status: Least Concern
- Best Locations: Carara National Park, Osa Peninsula, Palo Verde
Where to See Scarlet Macaws in Costa Rica
Carara National Park
The premier location for Scarlet Macaws in Costa Rica. The park protects transitional forest between wet and dry ecosystems.
Best Season: Year-round
Success Rate: Very High
Tips: Visit at dawn to hear their morning calls
Osa Peninsula / Corcovado National Park
Remote wilderness with healthy macaw populations. Less accessible but incredible biodiversity.
Best Season: December-April (dry season)
Palo Verde National Park
Large population in the Guanacaste region. Boat tours along the Tempisque River offer excellent viewing.
Identification Tips
Adult Scarlet Macaw: Brilliant scarlet red head, neck, and body. Bright yellow upper wing coverts. Deep blue lower back and wing tips. White facial patch. Strong curved black bill.
Similar Species: Great Green Macaw (larger, green with red forehead)
Photography Tips
- Lens: 200-400mm for flight shots, 400-600mm for perched
- Timing: Dawn and dusk when active
- Patience: They often return to same perch trees
Best Time to Visit
| Month | Macaw Activity |
|---|---|
| January-April | Peak (dry season) |
| May-June | Breeding, more vocal |
| July-November | Lower, rainy season |
Recommended Tours
- Early morning birding walks at Carara National Park
- Osa Peninsula Multi-day Tours
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see Scarlet Macaws from the road?
Sometimes – listen for calls and watch for flying pairs along highways near Carara.
Are they endangered?
Globally, Least Concern. Locally common in protected areas.
What’s the best time of day?
Dawn (6-8 AM) when they become active and vocal.
Related Birding Locations
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