Endangered Macaws Saved, While Blue Macaw Perla Returns To The Wild

A joint operation by Paraguay’s Ministry of the Environment and Sustainable Development (Mades), the National Police, and the Public Ministry has rescued several endangered macaws. The operation targeted the illegal wildlife trade. Among the rescued birds was a hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), one of the most iconic and threatened species in South America, along with two red-and-green macaw chicks (Ara chloropterus).

The operation took place in Paraguay’s Alto Paraná department. It represents a significant blow against the illegal wildlife trade and showcases Paraguay’s commitment to its National Strategy for Combating the Illegal Trafficking of Wildlife. According to Mades, the birds were being transported in deplorable conditions, inside cardboard boxes and makeshift cages. They showed clear signs of mistreatment and overcrowding.

Arrest and investigation

Authorities arrested the individual responsible for the illegal transportation of the birds. The suspect has been placed at the disposal of the Specialised Unit for Environmental Crimes of the Public Ministry. A full investigation is underway.

Following the rescue, the macaws were transferred to the Itaipú Binational’s Wildlife Animal Research Centre. There, specialists will conduct health checks to determine their condition and ensure their full recovery. The centre provides comprehensive care to help the birds regain their health and strength. Their long-term future will depend on their successful rehabilitation, and experts will work to determine if a return to the wild is possible.

Blue macaw Perla return to natural habitat

In the same week, Mades supported the release of Perla (Pearl), a blue macaw on the endangered species list. The bird, rescued in 2024 in critical condition, has made a full recovery and returned to its natural habitat.

Perla was released back into the wild after more than a year of rehabilitation, according to the institution. The release took place deep in the Paraguayan forest, in the same place where she was found last year, when she was still a featherless chick with minimal chances of survival.

On the brink of extinction

The blue-and-white macaw is a species on the brink of extinction, and each hatchling represents new hope for conservation. However, its development is exposed to multiple threats, from climatic phenomena such as storms and rains to habitat loss. The discovery of Perla in critical condition in 2024 was a reminder of this fragility.

Thanks to the joint efforts of Mades, the Association for the Conservation of Psittacidae of Paraguay (ACPP), One Earth Conservation, and local producers, Perla was raised under strict care protocols until she reached the strength necessary to fly free again.