Why Are Macaws So Expensive?

Macaws are famously expensive birds to buy.

Why?

They are expensive due to the rarity of the breed along with their popularity.

It must also be noted that the price of the macaw will depend highly on what kind of breed you get. 

In this article you’re going to discover the following

  • The average cost of a macaw
  • Why macaws are expensive (In detail)
  • Cost of owning a macaw
  • Most expensive parrot breeds

So if you’re interested in adopting a macaw and want to know all about the costs, or maybe what the most expensive parrot breed is then you’re going to love this article

Sound good?

Let’s get started!

What Is The Average Cost Of a Macaw?

The cost of a macaw depends on a number of factors.

It will depend on whether you adopt one or purchase one from a breeder.

It will also depend on what kind of macaw species you get:

Blue and Gold, Scarlet, or Hybrid.

As a general rule, macaws will range something between $500 to $1,000 when you adopt a macaw.

Due to the complexity of looking after these exotic birds, some macaws are abandoned or turned away.

When it comes to adopting, you only pay the adoption fee to the organization that looks after these abandoned birds.

The type of macaw you get won’t really play a factor in the adoption fee.

If you purchase a bird from a breeder, the costs will vary greatly, ranging from $1000 to $12000.

Blue and Gold macaws and Hybrid macaws are normally on the lower range.

They can cost something between $1000 to $5000.

Scarlet macaws cost around $2000 to $4000.

And Hyacinth macaws can cost you between $5000 to $12000 and more.

So yes, they can be expensive

Question is – Why are macaws so expensive?

What’s the reason for the price to be so high?

Let’s find out

Carry on reading

Why Are Macaws So Expensive?

Macaws are exotic, tropical birds that have very specific needs.

This makes macaws particularly expensive pets.

It doesn’t help that these are very popular parrots to have!

Additionally, they are not only beautiful, but they also make great companions!

Macaws are very popular as they’re fun to have around and they love interacting with you.

Their beautiful colors also make them tempting pets to have.

But as beautiful as they are, it must be noted that they aren’t easy pets to keep or raise.

The difficulty of breeding and raising them adds to their high price as well.

Breeders spend a lot of time feeding and caring for baby macaws, so they will price them accordingly.

Keeping in mind their beauty, personality, popularity, and difficulty, it’s not surprising that macaws cost as much as they do!

I guess it’s understandable why they are expensive

Let’s find out the costs of owning a macaw

So you get an idea in case you’re planning on adopting one

What Are The Costs Of Owning a Macaw?

The upfront costs of buying a macaw are expensive, but owning this type of bird can be very costly as well.

Firstly, macaws are large parrots that need an equally large cage.

A quality macaw cage can cost around $1,000 to $5,000.

It’s not recommended to buy a cheap cage as it’s likely that you’ll need to replace it soon anyway.

A quality cage will last you longer and be cheaper in the long run.

You will also need to buy accessories for the cage as the macaw can’t live in an empty one!

This includes things like feeder bowls, perches, and maybe even a UV lamp.

You may be able to find macaw cages that come with these accessories, but it will help to purchase some more so that your bird has more stimulation.

Macaw food is another cost you will need to think about.

For quality food, you will be spending around $50 to $100 a month to feed your macaw.

And in addition to the above, you will also need to think about buying grooming supplies, vet visits, and even toys.

So are macaws the only parrot breed that is expensive?

Nope!

There are other expensive parrot breeds too

Interested to know which ones they are?

Let’s find out

What Is The Most Expensive Breed Of Parrot?

Parrots can range from super cheap to incredibly expensive depending on the species.

Macaws can be expensive, but there are other species that can be just as expensive or sometimes even more.

  1. Black palm cockatoos are probably the most expensive parrot on the market. They are the largest cockatoo and very rare with only 3000 left in the wild. The low rate of reproduction in captivity makes it an expensive breed as well. Expect to pay around $15000 to $20000.
  2. Hyacinth macaws are one of the most expensive parrots you can own. They are rare and quickly decreasing in population. Their bright blue color also makes them a popular breed to own which adds to their price. Expect to pay around $5000 to $12000.
  3. Major Mitchell’s cockatoos are third on this list. This parrot is not endangered like the two above, but they are expensive as they are popular birds to own due to their beautiful pink feathers. Due to the high demand for these cockatoos, they cost around $4000 to $10000.

Wrapping Up 

Macaws are popular birds to own, and it’s no wonder, as they are really beautiful birds that make great companions.

However, they are quite expensive to buy and they are equally as expensive to own.

If you are thinking of purchasing a macaw, keep in mind the cost of raising these gorgeous parrots.

They are not easy pets to keep and this is reflected in the cost.

But their companionship and fun personality make it worth it for many!

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