The lick or macaws (Ara spp. ) they are a genus of birds in the family of parrots (Psittacidae ) of the order of the Psittaciformes, comprising 14 species ( six of them extinct ) of American origin, dwelling from the jungles of Mexico to the northeast of Argentina, approximately. They feed on insects and berries and live in trees.Recognize 17 species of macaws ( 23, if you consider the extinct ) divided in 6 genera, being the most numerous genus ( Ara originally this genus contained all other species, and in some books and sites still figure as a single genre ).
At the beginning of the 19th century, during the war of independence, the city of Cadiz, (Spain ) It was militarised due along with the island of Leon ( current San Fernando ) they were only the peninsular Spain territories free of the French occupation.Distinguished volunteer soldiers were popularly known for macaws, due to the colours of their uniforms. Other military groups defending the town were known by the people as: the lechuguinos, the perejiles and the Canaanites.
