Scarlet Macaws of the Osa Peninsula

May 3, 2026

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The scarlet macaws of the Osa Peninsula are the largest population of Macaws in all of Costa Rica

Scarlet macaw in flight. osa peninsula costa rica

They mate for life

Scarlet Macaws, also known as Lapas in Costa Rica, mate for life . If the male can not get the female pregnant, the female will find another male for mating, but will still stay with her chosen male throughout their life.

The Lapas population is growing.

The last research has the Lapa population between 800 and 1200 single birds. At one time, they were declining for several reasons. Large fruit companies were spraying their fruits with pesticides that made the eggs soft and would not hatch.

Decline in habitat was the second reason, with illegal logging.

Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center

Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center has a program to incubate the eggs to release the Lapas back into the wild. Over the last 20 years, they have released over 300 Scarlet Macaws back into the wild.

Where to find them

Lapas love beach almonds; it is one of their favorite foods to eat. On any given day, you will hear the screaming before you see them. They fly in pairs, in groups of up to 20 pairs

I have an almond tree in my yard, and these beautiful birds show up every day to eat the almonds.

The Osa Peninsula is Scarlet Macaws’ country; it will not be hard to find them. They are my favorite birds on the Osa Peninsula.

They love to play

Lapas will recognize you. I had one lapa that had a little white patch on its head. Every time we saw each other, he would show off. turning upside down, and it seemed he was smiling.