Cover photo: One of the three nest boxes in which very successful parents were able to nest three chicks each! Bennett Hennessey, Armonía
The Laney Rickman Reserve Nest Box Program has reached a new milestone in the conservation of the Blue-throated Macaw (Ara glaucogularis), with a record 17 chicks successfully fledging during the 2024 breeding season. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 15 chicks in 2023 and reinforces the effectiveness of artificial nest boxes as a tool for the protection of this Critically Endangered species, as detailed in this year’s Laney Rickman Reserve update report from the Blue-throated Macaw Nest Box Program.
Since the program started in 2005, 145 chicks have successfully fledged thanks to the nest boxes installed at the Laney Rickman Reserve. In 2024, 128 boxes were placed, of which 11 were occupied by breeding pairs of Blue-throated Macaws. Among the notable results, three boxes were used for the first time, and one has been continuously occupied for five years.
The success of this program not only benefits Blue-throated Macaws but also other species that are beginning to use the nest boxes, which could have long-term positive effects on the local biodiversity. However, the Program continues to face challenges, such as competition between macaw pairs for nest sites and threats from predators.
In addition, the report highlights the implementation of key measures to reduce fire risks, such as maintaining firebreaks and training park rangers in firefighting techniques. These actions are essential to protect the critical habitats of the Blue-throated Macaw, as uncontrolled fires pose a significant threat to the Reserve and its biodiversity.
Constant monitoring through camera traps has provided valuable information about bird behavior and predator interactions, allowing conservation strategies to be improved. This year, there was a decrease in interspecies conflicts, although competition among Blue-throated Macaw pairs remains intense.
The Laney Rickman Reserve Nest Box Program, implemented by Asociación Armonía, is a prime example of how human intervention can help preserve endangered species, ensuring a safer future for the Blue-throated Macaw in Bolivia.
Photo: Two successful nests from the 2024 breeding season, each featuring Blue-throated Macaw chicks at different stages of development. Cesar Flores Ohara, Armonía.
This remarkable effort has been made possible thanks to the support of the nest box sponsors, who have significantly contributed to the success of the Laney Rickman Reserve Nest Box Program. Among the sponsors are:
- Andrew Maguire
- Meryl and Roy Friedman
- EARTH Ltd @ Southwick’s Zoo
- Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
- Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium
- Anaya Crawford
- ABC Birds Store
- Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
- Andy Sanford in memory of Peggy Sanford and Dot Slator
- Brenton Head
- Dorothy Paterson in memory of Dr. Janice Boyd