HARLEQUIN MACAWS BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING
Harlequin Macaws, like the hyacinth macaw, require a great deal of attention and socialization. In fact, they will probably require more attention than a typical dog or cat. Owning one of these birds requires commitment and love for the bird.
Because a Harlequin is a fairly large bird it will require a large cage with enough room to fully spread its wings, to climb and play and it should have enough room so that its tail does not drag on the bottom even when sitting on the lowest perch.
You should provide them with plenty of activities and toys inside the cage to help keep them occupied. Harlequins, like most macaws, like to climb so provide them with ladders and sturdy chains. They will need a at least two horizontal bars to exercise their feet. Keep a variety of wooden toys on hand. They will play with these toys and chew on them so the toys will need replaced frequently. Change the toys out often so the bird does not become bored with them. Keep in mind that the Harlequin is a large bird and will require toys that are too large to be swallowed and cause choking.
It is also advisable to let the bird out for several hours each day to roam and interact with the humans in the house. Consider putting a small play gym in the living room where they can interact with the people in the house and still have their own play area.
Harlequin Macaws can learn a limited vocabulary. Some will learn more words than others. Patience is the key when teaching your macaw to talk. There are a variety of training courses for macaws that will help you teach your Harlequin tricks and help you prevent destructive or unwanted behavior.
Harlequins like to bathe. Offer them a separate bowl of water, large enough for them to sit in, daily. They will also enjoy being sprayed with a water bottle and many will enjoy a full-sized shower.
