Behavior/Health Concerns:  Chewing and biting are common behavior problems among hyacinth macaws. Over-stimulation during an activity might cause an unnecessary bite. They are prolific chewers and susceptible to overgrown beaks, so provide wood and other hard toys to give their beaks a work out. They are also susceptible to papillomas, proventricular dilatation disease (PDD, also known as “macaw wasting” disease), polyomavirus, psittacosis and vitamin-A sensitivity. Exposure to natural sunlight is also important. Because of their size and activity level, hyacinth macaws require a higher fat and higher carbohydrate diet than other macaws. Macadamia nuts should be included in their base diet of pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Owners often face the challenge of keeping up with their active hyacinth macaws.