Abstract
In the last decade, aviculture has increasingly taken a strong role in conservation.
The need to maintain self-sustaining captive populations of pure species cannot be over
emphasized. For genetically sound captive breeding to occur, there needs to be a significant
population of genetically pure parent stock and careful pairing of the chicks. As
this article shows, hybrids create a particularly difficult concern because they have
physical traits from both parents. Several Buffon's mated with Militaries are known to
exist. In the wild, macaws do not hybridize. In captivity, they are entirely dependent
on our choice for a mate. Although macaws will interbreed, when given the option
they will choose their own species. Long term pairs can and will accept new mates.
They are truly beautiful creatures that are not improved by our meddling. We are all
aware of habitat destruction caused by man and nature. Yet, by hybridizing, we destroy
their unique genetic material. Hybridizing has no place in responsible aviculture.
Please complete the questionnaire (among the center insert sheets) so we know what
the current status is of true Buffon's Macaws. If you need a mate for your Buffon's or
have an extra one that needs a home or mate, let us know what you are looking for and
we will try to get potential mates together. Contact: Buffon's, c/o P.O. Box 620707,
Woodside, California 94062.