Amazon RainforestNo. 08 of 12Blue-and-yellow Macaw
the singer
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The macaws who saved the Cañari people
The Cañari, an ancient people of the southern Andes of Ecuador, tell that after a great flood only two brothers survived, high on Huacayñán mountain, which grew as the water rose.
They were very hungry until, mysteriously, they began finding food and chicha waiting in their little house. Hiding to discover who brought it, they saw two macaws arrive with the faces of women, dressed like Cañari.
One of them stayed to live with the younger brother, brought seeds to plant and they started a family. All the Cañari descend from their children, and they have honoured macaws ever since. The story does not say which species they were, which is why this tale belongs to both LOMÁS+ macaws.
“Two macaws with women’s faces brought food to the brothers.”
Told by: Cañari people, southern Andes of Ecuador
Up to 87 cm
including its long tail
Eats clay
to help its digestion
Powerful beak
cracks hard seeds
Partner for life
flies in small flocks
Amazon Rainforest
It lives in the tropical rainforests of the Amazon, near great rivers, lagoons and swamps. It visits riverbanks to eat clay.
Fun facts
- Its face is white, with fine lines of tiny black feathers.
- It is very smart and can imitate words.
