The Flight of the Scarlet Macaw

There are only 350 scarlet macaws left in the wild in Belize. They face the threats of poaching and habitat loss. But let us introduce you to the passionate people determined to save these colorful birds.

It was June 7th, 2020 when gunshots rang through the jungle. A man was down, and with him, a bag he’d been carrying. Inside the bag were 7 baby chicks, each only about a month old.

The poacher ends up being rushed to hospital for his injuries. And all 7 macaw chicks rescued and brought to an animal rehabilitation center. There to get a second chance at life in the wild.

The scarlet macaws live among huge trees in a tropical wonderland that’s always under some kind of threat but there is a small army of people that are out to help them. This episode of THE WILD is my journey to meet these people and show how these birds have captured their hearts.

This is the story of their world - the birds, and the brave people dedicated to saving them in the tropical rainforest of Belize.

Recommended links from Chris Morgan:

Friends for Conservation and Development

Scarlet Macaw Bed and Breakfast

THE WILD is a production of KUOW in Seattle in partnership with Chris Morgan and Wildlife Media. It is produced by Matt Martin and edited by Jim Gates. It is hosted, produced and written by Chris Morgan. Fact checking by Apryle Craig. Our theme music is by Michael Parker.

Follow us on Instagram (@thewildpod) for more adventures and behind the scenes action!