Once declared extinct in the wild in 2000, the Spix’s macaw—one of the world’s rarest birds—is now at the heart of a historic rewilding project. In a collaborative effort, the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), a part of Vantara, has partnered with the Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP) to bring this iconic species back to its natural habitat.
A Landmark Milestone in Conservation
A major step in this ambitious initiative was the transfer of 41 Spix’s macaws from ACTP’s breeding facility in Berlin, Germany, to a dedicated reintroduction site in Bahia, Brazil. This follows the successful release of 20 Spix’s macaws in 2022, which resulted in the first wild-born chicks in over two decades—a clear indication that the program is working.
Through this international Reintroduction Programme, Vantara is providing vital support to ACTP, furthering its commitment to reintroducing the Spix’s macaw into its natural home within Brazil’s Caatinga biome.
A Carefully Selected Group for a New Beginning
The 41 relocated macaws were meticulously chosen based on their health and genetic lineage. The group consists of:
- 23 females
- 15 males
- 3 juveniles (undetermined sex)
Some of these macaws will be integrated into the upcoming release batch, while others will strengthen breeding programs aimed at long-term species survival.
Before being moved, the birds underwent a rigorous 28-day quarantine in Berlin, including extensive medical examinations to ensure they were free from disease and posed no risk to Brazil’s ecosystem.
A Complex but Well-Orchestrated Operation
On January 28, 2025, the macaws were flown to Petrolina Airport, Brazil, in a chartered flight, where every detail of their transportation was carefully planned. The operation involved:
- Border police and federal customs assistance for expedited processing
- Specialized vehicles for safe ground transport
- Constant supervision by two ACTP veterinarians and a keeper
- Logistical support from Vantara’s GZRRC team
Upon arrival, the birds were immediately transferred to a local quarantine facility under strict observation, marking another crucial step in their path to rewilding.
A Hopeful Future for the Spix’s Macaw
This initiative represents one of the most successful bird reintroduction programs in history. With every milestone, the return of the Spix’s macaw to the wild edges closer to reality, offering hope not only for this species but for global conservation efforts.
By working together, Vantara, ACTP, and dedicated conservationists are proving that extinction doesn’t have to be permanent—and that with commitment and innovation, endangered species can thrive once again in their natural environments.