Ever wanted to learn more about the Green Cheeked Conure?
These adorable birds are native to South America and are mainly found in the dense forests of Bolivia and Brazil.
At an average height of 10 inches they may be small but this doesn’t stop them from being a truly fascinating bird.
What is a Green-Cheeked Conure?
It’s a small companion parrot that is brightly colored, sociable and vocal.
The Green-Cheeked Conure has a lot of scientific names: The Pyrrhura Molinae, Green Cheek Parakeet, Argentine Conure, Santa Cruz Conure and the Yellow-Sided Conure.
These colorful birds are a popular pet choice because they’re affectionate, cheeky and great fun.
Subspecies
There are 6 subspecies of the Green-Cheeked Conure, the most common of these is the Molinae Australis.
As well as the different subspecies, color variants have also been bred and are known by various names such as: cinnamon, pineapple, turquoise, and yellow-sided.
The cinnamon variation are lime green and pale green, while the yellow-sided variation are brightly colored.
New World Parrot
New World parrots, which are also known as neotropical parrots are the estimated 150 species of parrot that are commonly found throughout the USA and in the Carribean.
These are the species of parrots that have been known to us since Columbus wrote about them in his journal.
The Green-Cheeked Conure is a New World parrot and so are Parakeets and Macaws.
Old World parrots are ones native to Africa, Asia and Europe, such as the Afrcan Gray Parrot and cockatiels.
Green Cheeked Conure Behavior
The Green-Cheeked Conure has a friendly, inquisitive nature. Their small size, colorful appearance and intelligence makes then a popular pet choice.
Behavior in the Wild
In the wild they stick in flocks of 10-20 birds for safety. They nest high up in the trees so that their prey pose little threat to them and to their eggs and nests.
Their feather colorations also act as a great camouflage, trying to spot a Green-Cheeked Conure amongst never-ending greenery isn’t an easy feat.
They love dense forest areas and thrive in these environments. They also like to chew their food before they eat.
They have a lifespan of between 10-15 years.
Behavior as a Pet
In the wild conures have a routine that involves lots of flying and eating fruits and seeds.
This social bird is used to adapting to its surroundings to survive and flourish.
Conures in captivity need a varied diet and plenty of exercise so that they don’t become bored and start picking their feathers.
These social creatures love attention so if you’re thinking about getting one as a pet, you need to make sure that you’ll have plenty of time for them.
In captivity they can live for around 30 years.
How People Affect their Behavior
With lots of love and attention this somewhat shy-natured bird will soon be their full cheeky and inquisitive self.
In the wild they have their flock for company but as pets they only have their owners and any other birds they have.
The more time you give them then the happier these birds will be. They love toys, treats, games and lots of fuss and attention.
They will go out of their way to seek your attention, you can expect to find them hanging upside-down and dancing to get you to notice them.
Selective Breeding
Color variations have been bred in aviculture to produce newly colored conures. These have the same size and temperament as other conures, they just have slightly different colorings.
Whether you want the turquoise or pineapple variation they’re all beautiful, smart and funny birds, regardless of their feather colors.
Effects from the Food they Consume
Green-Cheeked Conures eat similar things regardless of it they’re in the wild or a pet. They love seeds, fruit and veg.
They need a varied and healthy diet to keep their feathers glossy, their minds active and generally make them happy.
Pets need specialized pellets to give them the added vitamins they need to help them live long and healthy lives.
How to Identify if your Green Cheeked Conure is Ill or Unhappy?
If your Green-Cheeked Conure has gone off its food, seems distant, quiet or lethargic then it’s advisable to take them to the vets as soon as possible.
If you believe that your pet is ill and you have other birds then keep them separate to avoid the risk of them becoming ill too.
A feather-picking pet is more than likely bored and is desperate for your attention. You could try hiding treats in their cage to keep them busy and add a few more toys.
Vocalization Abilities after Training
These birds have limited vocabulary but may be able to learn a few simple words or sounds with extensive training.
They’re one of the quieter species of parrots which makes them favorable as pets.
Words aren’t their strong point but they’re extremely good at learning new tricks. These acrobats are capable of rope climbing, ringing bells and flying to collect items.
Companionship
Green-Cheeked Conures are social creatures who don’t like being alone for long periods of time.
Don’t place them with non-parrot type birds as they are prone to squabble and their strong beaks mean they can do a lot of damage to the other bird.
If however, you think your conure would benefit from a companion, then it’s best to opt for another conure of similar size.
Molting Season Pattern
Every year your conure will go through a molting process that lasts for 2 months. This is totally natural and is a way for them to refresh their feathers.
This process begins on the wings or head of the conure.
They molt because in the wild their feathers go through a lot of damage from the elements and their habitat. Conures are proud birds who care about their appearance.
A fresh new coat of feathers will make them desirable to other birds and show that they’re in good health.
Lifestyle and Health Of The Green Cheeked Conure
A healthy lifestyle leads to a healthy conure. Read on to find out more about a Green-Cheeked Conures lifestyle and how to make sure that they stay happy and healthy.
Life Expectancy
In the wild conures have a lifespan of 10-15 years, while in captivity they can live up to 30 years old.
In the wild they face threats from the elements, prey and diseases, which are all contributors in their shorter lifespans.
Common Injuries and Treatments
Because of their inquisitive nature Green-Cheeked Conures are accident prone.
They are clumsy and fall off their perch easily. Also, their sneaky mate may push them off. If this happens check your conures wings and legs for injuries and then fix the perch (if this needs doing).
Conures want to eat anything and everything so never give them plastic toys. If you think your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t have then keep an eye out for odd behavior and unusual stool movements.
Put stickers on the windows so that your conure won’t crash into it…bump! Reassure your pet, as they generally only fly into windows when they’re frightened.
Major Disease Problems and Treatments
Both beak and feather diseases are common amongst conures.
Keep an eye on your pet and check for unusual behavior such as loss of appetite, acting lethargic, vomiting and diarrhea.
If you think your conure might be ill then you should get them to the vet quickly. Once conures become ill it can develop quickly and can become fatal in as little as 2 to 4 weeks.
Hygienic Needs
These birds take pride in their appearance and like to feel clean. They also love to bathe often, which they can do in a low pan or dish.
Keep their cage fresh and clean and change their drinking water daily.
Physical Characteristics
These playful birds are known for their small size, colorful feathers and hooked beaks.
Size and Weight
They are one of the smaller species of parrots and are around 10 inches long and they weigh between 60-80 grammes.
Beak Structure
Their hard beaks are made out of calcium and keratin, which makes them strong and tough, perfect for cracking open nuts and grooming their feathers.
Eye, Feather and Foot Color
Conures have ruby red eyes that fade in color when exposed to sunlight. Their beak and feet are light in color.
The head and body vary in color depending on the subspecies or variation type they are.
Habitat
Green-Cheeked Conures like lots of space, a place to perch and toys to keep them amused.
Preferred Climate
Green-Cheeked Conures are pretty good at adapting to varying temperatures. Still, it’s best to keep the room between 65 and 85 fahrenheit.
Predators: Wild and Domestic
These lucky birds don’t have many predators. In the wild most predators are put off by their out-of-reach nests. Their feather colorings also make the hard to spot among the trees.
The False Vampire Bat and Ornate Hawk-Eagle are a few of their predators but the problem they face is having to find and catch the conures first.
Usually, these predators will prey on easier to find birds.
Domestic conures don’t have the same threats as wild ones do, however, they don’t always dwell well alongside dogs, so it’s best to keep them seperate.
Enclosure Requirements
Conures like lots of space so make sure an enclosure for one bird is at least 24”W x 24”D x 30”H.
Adding a variety of sized perches is a great way of keeping your conure active and is good for their joints.
Use natural cleaning products on the enclosure and replace any broken perches, dishes and toys straight away.
Your bird will love it if you regularly supply them with new toys to keep them busy.
FAQs – The Short Answers
Do you still have lots of questions about this colorful, friendly parrot? Don’t worry, as below I answer the most frequently asked questions.
Question 1- Why is it Called ‘a Big Bird in a Little Bird’s Body?’
They’re called this because they’re highly intelligent birds who are capable of being playful, affectionate and they have strong characters and personality traits.
You can teach them tricks, play games with them and teach them a few simple words.
Question 2- How Much Do They Cost?
They usually cost between £250 and $500 dollars. As well as their initial cost you have to consider enclosure, food and vet bills.
They are great birds but as with all pets, they can become expensive. It’s important to take cost into consideration before purchasing your pet.
Question 3- Are They a Good First Bird Pet?
Yes, but be prepared to put a lot of work in to train them and grow the bond between you both.
They demand a lot of attention and their playful nature means that they’re liking to peck their way into trouble.
You need to keep a firm eye on your bird when they’re out of their cage so that they don’t eat anything they’re not meant too.
If you’re willing to put in the time and effort them the Green-Cheeked Conure is sure to make an amazing first bird pet, and they’ll soon become a valued member of the family.
A Green-Cheeked Conure Overview
The Green-Cheeked Conure has plenty of character and quirks. They love to eat fruit, fly around the room and learn new tricks.
They make amazing companions and are great first time bird pets. There certainly won’t be a dull minute with one of these cheeky feathery friends around the place.
I hope you now know everything you wanted to know about this funny, smart, adorable bird.
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