The Green Cheeked Conure: A Complete Care Guide

The Green Cheeked Conure (Pyrrhura molinae), also called the Green Cheeked Parakeet, is a beloved small parrot native to South America. Known for its playful personality and intelligence, it measures about 25-26cm in length and weighs roughly 60-80g. These birds typically live up to 30 years in captivity under proper care.

Their natural colours include green cheeks, maroon tail feathers, blue primary wing feathers with brownish-black bodies, and a grey beak. Sexing visually is not possible due to their similar appearance between sexes.

In the wild, Green Cheeked Conures inhabit areas in Mato Grosso, Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay, living in forests and woodlands. They form flocks ranging from 10-20 birds or larger where food is abundant, sometimes flying 100 miles daily to forage or find nesting sites.

Keeping a Green Cheeked Conure

These birds are well-known for their affectionate, intelligent, and mischievous nature. They enjoy interacting with toys, learning tricks such as giving kisses or potty training, and can mimic speech to a limited extent. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and can be quite clownish, often hanging upside down and entertaining their families.

Compared to other conures, they are quieter, making them suitable for urban living where noise can be a concern. Biting phases may occur but can be managed with patience and training, teaching the difference between gentle and harmful biting. Physical punishment should never be used as it can lead to fear or aggressive behaviours.

Green Cheeked Conures love chewing but are less destructive than larger conures. They benefit from a stimulating environment filled with balls and chewable toys to keep them occupied when alone. Daily out-of-cage time of 2-4 hours is essential to meet their exercise needs and psychological well-being.

Nutrition and Food

A balanced diet is crucial. They enjoy seeds like sunflower and safflower that mimic their wild diet, complemented by fresh fruits such as apples, grapes, mangoes, and kiwi, and vegetables including carrots, spinach, and kale. Edible weeds like dandelions and chickweed are also enjoyed.

Cooked grains like rice, oats, and pasta may be included, and sprouted seeds are a nutritious option. Dried fruits and vegetables without additives can be moistened for feeding. Overfeeding fatty seeds can lead to obesity, so moderation is key. Occasional calcium supplements may be needed for bone health.

Always provide fresh water daily. Many Green Cheeked Conures enjoy being misted or joining their owner in a shower with a bird-safe perch, which also helps maintain feather condition.

Mutations and Colour Variations

Several reliable colour mutations are bred in captivity, enhancing their visual appeal. These include:

• Cinnamon – lime green feathers with a tan head and light maroon tail.
• Yellow-sided – vibrant brightly coloured breast feathers.
• Pineapple – a combination of cinnamon and yellow-sided featuring a bright breast, tan head, lime body feathers and light maroon tail.
• Turquoise – blue-green body feathers, grey breast feathers, with some grey in the tail.

Breeding Green Cheeked Conures

Green Cheeked Conures become sexually mature at about one year old, though waiting longer before breeding is advisable. A suitable nest box is 16-24 inches deep with a 3-inch entrance, positioned about 5 feet above ground. Bedding should be non-toxic, 2 inches deep, such as sawdust or clean shredded paper, avoiding larger bedding that parents might feed chicks accidentally.

Clutches consist of 4-6 eggs incubated by both parents for about 22-25 days. Parents can be protective of their nest, so inspections should be made when adults are away for feeding.

Conclusion

The Green Cheeked Conure is an active, intelligent, and affectionate small parrot that bonds well with humans. They require less space than larger parrots like African Greys but thrive on interaction and exercise. With a variety of colours and manageable care needs, they are ideal for owners with some parrot experience. Their quieter nature suits apartment life, and their varied diet and playful personalities make them delightful pets.