For more than 1,000 years, Scarlet macaws have dazzled people of the Southwest. Their brilliantly colored plumage and large size inspire curiosity among those who see them. Remains of macaws have been documented in early archaeological excavations at both Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot national monuments.

Many visitors are impressed when they learn these exotic birds were traded into the Verde Valley, and farther north, from hundreds of miles south into modern-day Mexico. It is the intent of the National Park Service to increase visitor awareness of this unique part of history in the Verde Valley. In partnership with Sacred Scarlets, a group focused on conservation of the macaws, the park staff hopes to leave an impression on visitors, allowing them to make a meaningful connection to the two national monuments.

Sacred Scarlets will be hosting monthly demonstrations at Tuzigoot National Monument on the last Sunday of each month at 10 a.m., beginning January 29. Sacred Scarlets presents lectures and demonstrations featuring a young captive-bred Scarlet macaw. These lectures and demonstrations address conservation as well as the Scarlet macaw’s fascinating history in American Southwest culture.

Kelley Taylor, founder of Sacred Scarlets, presents these amazing birds as ambassadors for their protection in the wild while sharing their long, rich, sometimes mysterious and often unknown history in the American Southwest.

There is no additional fee to attend the demonstration; regular entrance fees of $10 per adult 16 and older apply. Entrance fees are good for admission and reentry to Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well, and Tuzigoot national monuments for seven days.