06/10/2026
Great news for the birds.
AFA Statement on Recent Reports Regarding Spix’s Macaws
The American Federation of Aviculture is aware of public concern surrounding the Spix’s macaws in Brazil and recent reports regarding the management of birds connected to the Ararinha Azul Conservation Breeding Facility.
ICMBio has issued an official statement clarifying that claims about plans to euthanize Spix’s macaws are false. According to the statement, 69 Spix’s macaws and two blue-winged macaws that had never tested positive for circovirus were transferred on May 27 under biosafety protocols to separate them from birds that tested positive and to increase sanitary safety.
ICMBio also stated that the 34 Spix’s macaws that tested positive for circovirus remain at the Ararinha Azul facility, will not be subjected to euthanasia, and may contribute to research that improves health management protocols for neotropical parrot species.
AFA recognizes the importance of transparency, science-based management, and the welfare of every bird involved in conservation breeding and recovery programs. We encourage the public to follow official updates closely and to support responsible conservation efforts that protect both individual birds and the long-term future of the Spix’s macaw.
The Spix’s macaw remains one of the world’s most important avian conservation stories, and decisions affecting these birds must be handled with care, accountability, and the highest standards of avian welfare.
