Macaws are some of the most intelligent and beautifully colored parrots. They are certainly the largest companion bird species. Although they are native to Mexico and Central and South America, most free-ranging species are considered threatened or endangered, and efforts to protect these birds resulted in a ban on importation for pet purposes in the United States. High quality companion birds are available from breeders. The most common large macaws include the blue and gold, scarlet, green-winged and hyacinth. These birds are not suitable as pets for the average family because they require extensive care and space and are extremely noisy. More suited to captivity are those species known as the miniature macaws, including the severe, Hahn's, yellow-collared and noble. These smaller birds have more acceptable vocalization levels and are less destructive; however, fewer of these are bred in captivity. As a result, the current availability is low and the genetic pool is limited.