It is among the longest-lived[3] and most expensive bird species[4] one can own, requiring advanced knowledge, experience and confidence to keep them healthy, stimulated and thriving.

[6][7] The military macaw is, now, one of ten species in the genus Ara, designated in 1799 by French naturalist Bernard Germain de Lacépède.

[10] Three subspecies are recognised:[9] Military macaws measure from 70 to 85 centimeters (28 to 33 inches) long on-average, with a 99–110 cm (39–43 in) wingspan.

The birds are mostly green-plumed, with light-blue and yellow flight and tail feathers, and a bright-red patch on the forehead.

They are very visually-similar to great green macaws, but can be distinguished by their smaller size, completely black bill, and overall darker, deeper plumage.

[citation needed] Military macaw activity has been observed most frequently in the morning and the evening meaning they are most likely a crepuscular species.

[13] They flock to feed on heaps of clay known as "macaw licks" along riverbanks and sometimes in the interior of the Amazon rainforest.

[citation needed] Pair-bonding behaviors include grooming and regurgitation and have been observed during breeding and non-breeding periods.

[15] The reproductive season begins with nest selection around October and ends when the chicks fledge between January and March.

[citation needed] Military macaws are estimated to only have a breeding population of 2000-7000 individuals and is continuing to decrease.

[17] Military macaws are listed as CITES Appendix 1 which means commercial international trade in wild specimens is prohibited.