They are typically brightly coloured, with large beaks and long tails. Habitat and diet Macaws live in a wide variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests to arid regions, but they are normally found near rivers or streams. Their varied diet includes fruit, seeds, nectar and nuts, which they open with their strong beaks. Macaws will often fly long distances in the search for ripe fruit and nuts. Some species, notably the hyacinth macaw, nest in burrows excavated with their beaks.
Scientists think that macaws mate for life, producing one to three young each year.
The young are relatively slow to develop, remaining in the nest for up to four months, and staying with their parents until the next breeding season. Predators Macaws have few natural predators and can live for up to 60 years.