Biologists have successfully reintroduced blue-and-yellow macaws to Tijuca National Park in Rio de Janeiro, marking the first sighting of these birds in the city since 1818. This initiative aims to restore the ecological balance of the park, which has suffered from deforestation and wildlife trade since the European colonization of Brazil.
The blue-and-yellow macaw, a symbol of Rio, is often depicted in local art and merchandise, with its colors reflecting those of the Brazilian flag. However, the species disappeared from the area due to habitat destruction and exploitation. The organization Refauna, dedicated to restoring the park’s fauna, has brought four macaws—three females and one male—into the park as part of a broader conservation effort.
In early 2026, the birds were released for a 15-day observation period before being returned to a controlled environment for further monitoring. The next phase of their acclimatization is scheduled for September.
“They are magnificent. It’s no wonder that visitors constantly ask how to see them,” said Viviane Lasmar, director of Tijuca National Park.
The macaws—named Fernanda, Selton, Fátima, and Sueli—were rescued from captivity. Biologists spent several months training them to fly and recognize local fruits, which are vital for their survival in the wild.
One of the primary challenges facing the macaws is human interaction. Tijuca National Park attracts approximately five million tourists annually, and the birds, having been raised in captivity, are accustomed to human presence. To mitigate this risk, Refauna’s team is working to teach the macaws to avoid visitors by using red poles to signal danger and obscuring their enclosure with vegetation to limit their view of passersby.
The reintroduction of the macaws is part of a larger project aimed at addressing the so-called “empty forest syndrome” in Tijuca, where the absence of animals has led to the decay of fruits on the forest floor, as there are no creatures to disperse the seeds. In the Atlantic Forest, up to 90% of plant species rely on animals for seed dispersal. Since 2010, Refauna has also reintroduced other species, including agoutis, howler monkeys, and yellow-legged tortoises.
Macaws play a crucial role in forest regeneration. Unlike many other animals, they can travel long distances and have strong beaks capable of cracking open tough seeds, facilitating seed dispersal far beyond the park’s boundaries. Refauna plans to introduce an additional six macaws in the near future, with a total goal of releasing 50 birds into the park.
“The return of species is not just about bringing animals back to the forest. It is about restoring ecological connections,” stated Vanessa Kanaan, director of Instituto Fauna Brasil.
The reintroduction of blue-and-yellow macaws to Tijuca National Park represents a significant step in ecological restoration efforts in Rio de Janeiro. This initiative aims to revive the local ecosystem, which has been adversely affected by human activities over the centuries.