Conures Types: The Ultimate Guide – Chipper Birds

Conures are a type of parrot that is known for being incredibly friendly and playful. There are many different types of conures, each with its own unique personality and coloring. In this article, we will discuss the different types of conures and what to look for when choosing a conure as a pet.

10 popular types of conures that make great pets

1. Green cheeked conure

Green-cheeked conures are a small, intelligent, and playful parrot species. They are about 10 inches tall, with some of the most colorful feathers you can find in the bird world. The primary colors on their body are bright green and gray, with some orange and blue markings around the eyes.

These birds are very social and make excellent pets as they are generally easy to train and bond with their owners.

Green-cheeked conures can be trained to do tricks, such as play fetch and wave “hello”. These birds also enjoy coming out of their cages for interactive activities with their owner. They delight in being cuddled and held, but should not be kept as sole pets, as they thrive in the company of other birds.

Green-cheeked conures require a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, with some seeds, nuts, and grains thrown in. They should also have plenty of fresh water available at all times. When it comes to housing, these birds do best with a large cage, as they are very active and need plenty of room to move around.

2. Painted conure (Pyrrhura picta)

The Painted Conure is a small, but very colorful parrot native to South America. They are also known as the Coquette Parakeet and originate from Brazil, Paraguay, Columbia, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru. This species of conure is one of the smallest in the Pyrrhura genus and comes in seven different subspecies.

The most recognizable of these seven is the Painted Conure or Pyrrhura picta. This subspecies has shades of green, yellow, orange, and blue feathers on its body.

They also have bright red around their eyes and a white streak that runs down the middle of their chest. The colors of these birds can vary slightly by subspecies.

These small parrots are highly intelligent and have a very active lifestyle in the wild. They spend time foraging, playing, and socializing with their flock mates.

Painted Conures make great pets as they are known to become quite attached to their owners and enjoy spending time out of their cage with them.

They enjoy activities such as playing with toys and taking baths. Their lifespan in captivity is typically around 20 years, although some may live longer. Painted Conures can be quite noisy so it’s important to provide them with appropriate stimulation and activities to keep them entertained and happy.

Overall, the Painted Conure is a great choice for those looking for an intelligent and active parrot as a pet. They require daily attention and need ample space in their cage to stay healthy and happy. With the right care, these birds can make wonderful companions for years to come.

3. Sun Conure

The Sun Conure, also known as the Sun Parakeet, is one of the most popular conures. Native to Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana, they are brightly colored with orange and yellow feathers. Sun Conures have cheerful personalities and enjoy spending time with their owners.

They can be quite vocal and love to chat away when they are in a good mood! Sun Conures need plenty of attention and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy, so it’s important to provide them with lots of toys and activities.

Sun Conures are considered to be medium-sized conures, growing to about 12 inches in length. They have a lifespan of 15-25 years with proper care and nutrition. Sun Conures require plenty of space in their cage to play and explore, as well as a variety of perches and toys.

It’s important to provide them with fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as a high-quality bird seed mix. Sun Conures are also known to be escape artists, so it’s important to make sure they have a secure cage.

When it comes to training, Sun Conures can be quite intelligent and eager to learn. They may need some patience and gentle guidance but can be taught to do a variety of tricks. Sun Conures can also be quite sociable and enjoy interacting with their owners. They may even learn to recognize words and mimic sounds!

Overall, the Sun Conure is an entertaining pet that is sure to bring plenty of joy into your home. With proper care and attention, they can make wonderful, loyal companions. If you’re looking for a conure that is full of personality, then the Sun Conure could be the perfect pet for you!

4. Black capped conure (Pyrrhura rupicola)

The black-capped conure, also known as the rock conure is from South America and is one of the smallest parrots in its genus. They are mostly green with pinkish-red bellies, brown eyes, and black caps on their head.

These birds have an incredibly sweet disposition which makes them great companions. They are often very vocal and can be quite noisy. Black-capped conures are curious, playful, intelligent birds who bond very closely with their owners.

These birds need a substantial amount of attention, as they tend to get bored on their own. They do best in an environment where they can interact with other people or animals. The black-capped conure is not the most sociable of the parrot species, but they are known to be very loyal and affectionate.

Black-capped conures need a large cage with plenty of space for them to climb and play. They enjoy being given many toys, as well as perches and swings to keep them entertained. The diet of these birds should consist of fresh vegetables, fruits, and high-quality pellets.

Black-capped conures require regular interaction with their owners in order to stay healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. They are also very social parrots who love to share experiences with other people or animals.

If given the attention that they need, these birds can be very loving and affectionate companions. This is a great bird for those who want to keep a smaller parrot but still have plenty of interaction with their feathered friend.

Overall, the black-capped conure is an excellent pet bird for experienced owners or those just starting out in the world of aviculture. They are smart, loyal, and affectionate creatures, and make wonderful companions for those willing to give them the attention that they need. With proper care and maintenance, these birds can be great additions to any family.

5. Blue throated conure (Pyrrhura cruentata)

The Blue-throated conure is a rare species of conure and is part of the Pyrrhura genus. Native to Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru, they are typically found in lowland tropical forest habitats.

These birds have mostly green plumage with some blue on the crown, throat, and abdomen. They also have red feathers on their tail and wings. Blue-throated conures are usually very shy in the wild, which makes them difficult to find.

In captivity, they can make great family pet birds due to their sweet disposition and intelligence. These birds are generally quiet but can learn to speak a few words and mimic sounds if given the opportunity.

It is important to provide them with plenty of enrichment activities such as foraging and climbing to keep them stimulated. They require a high-quality diet and lots of attention in order to form strong bondsBlue-throatedwners.

Blue-throated conures are relatively easy to breed in captivity, however, they can be quite sensitive to environmental changes so it is important to provide them with the best possible care. They are considered a difficult species to keep in general, and it is recommended that only experienced bird owners attempt to take on this challenge.

Blue-throated conures can be prone to some health issues such as feather plucking and vitamin deficiencies, so proper nutrition is essential for their well-being.

They also require regular vet check-ups to ensure any medical issues are caught early. All in all, with the right care and attention, these birds can make wonderful companions for experienced bird owners.

6. Cherry-headed conure (Psittacara erythrogenys)

The cherry-headed conure, also known as the red-masked conure or the red-headed conure, is a species of parrot native to South America. It is found in parts of Peru and Ecuador, where it inhabits dry forests, woodland edges, and scrubland.

The average size of this species is 8-10 inches in length, and its plumage is bright green overall with a distinctive red head.

The cherry-headed conure is considered to be an intelligent species of parrot capable of learning tricks and performing complex behaviors.

They can also learn to speak some words and phrases, but they tend to be quieter than some other conure species. These birds can bond closely with humans, forming strong attachments and becoming loyal pets.

The cherry-headed conure has been a popular pet bird in the United States since the mid-1980s. They are relatively easy to breed in captivity and they make good pets for people willing to devote time and effort to their care.

These birds require plenty of attention and stimulation, so they are not recommended for first-time bird owners. They can also be flighty, so it’s important to provide them with a secure, safe environment.

The cherry-headed conure is a sociable bird that enjoys the company of other birds and people. They can be kept in pairs or small groups, and they should also receive regular interaction with their human caretakers.

These birds are active and enjoy playing with toys, exploring their environment, and climbing around.

Like all conure species, the cherry-headed conure requires a high-quality diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as commercial pelleted food. They also need plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated and access to bird baths or showers for bathing. When kept in captivity, these birds can live up to 40 years.

Overall, the cherry-headed conure is an intelligent and sociable parrot that can make an affectionate pet for experienced bird owners.

They require a lot of attention, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of interaction and stimulating activities to keep them entertained. With proper care and nutrition, these birds can live long and happy lives in captivity.

7. Crimson bellied conure (Pyrrhura perlata)

The Crimson-bellied conure is another type of conure known for its vibrant green and red plumage. They are relatively small, measuring 7 to 8 inches long, although their long tail feathers can add a few extra inches to their overall length.

Their backs and wings are mostly bright green with some yellow hues near the top of the wings, while their bellies and chests are a deep red. Their heads have some yellow/olive hues, and they also have light blue patches above their beaks.

Crimson-bellied conures can easily adapt to different settings and environments, including captivity. They love interacting with humans and are considered good talkers. They are also energetic, social birds that need to feel close and connected with their owners.

When they’re not cuddling or playing, these conures enjoy chewing on wood toys as well as partaking in playtime activities like swinging from ropes or learning tricks.

Their diet should consist of a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with other healthy grains and nuts. They also need a mineral supplement in their diet, as well as plenty of fresh water and daily exercise.

When kept as pets, they require a lot of attention and should not be left alone for extended periods of time. Additionally, they need a lot of space to move around in, as well as plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained.

Overall, the Crimson-bellied conure is an active, entertaining pet that’s sure to bring joy and laughter into your home. If you’re looking for a fun and interactive feathered friend, then this type of conure may be a perfect choice. With proper care and attention, you can look forward to many years of happy companionship.

8. Orange conure (Eupsittula canicularis)

The orange conure is a small size parrot that is native to several countries in Central and South America, including Venezuela, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, French Guiana, and Ecuador. It has a large head with a long curved beak for cracking nuts as well as eating hard fruits. Its body has an orange-reddish color with a darker head and neck.

Its wings are black with yellow tips on the flight feathers. The orange conure is highly social, playful, and inquisitive, making them great companions for those looking to keep a pet bird. They can become attached to their owners and need plenty of attention and interaction in order to stay happy and healthy.

They are also known for their loud vocalizations and love to mimic words, so they can make great talkers. As with most conures, the orange conure needs plenty of room to play and exercise, as well as a variety of toys that will keep them entertained. If kept in an aviary, they should be provided with another bird in order to keep them company.

Orange conures can live for up to 25 years, so they require a long-term commitment from their owners. They are relatively easy to care for but require regular veterinary check-ups and grooming in order to stay healthy. With the right environment and attention, the orange conure can be an incredibly rewarding pet bird.

9. Nanday conure (Aratinga nenday)

The Nanday Conure, also known as the Black-hooded conure, is an intelligent and comical bird native to South America. This species has a bright green body with a blue head and black beak. Its primary diet consists of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

They are quite active birds that require plenty of social interaction and daily physical activities to stay healthy. Nanday conures can be quite vocal, making them great conversation companions. They are known to mimic human speech and whistle tunes.

This species is a bit more independent than other conures, making them easier to care for. As long as they have plenty of exercise and stimulation, Mondays make wonderful pets.

Nanday conures are social birds, so they do best in pairs or larger groups. They need plenty of attention and playtime to stay happy and healthy.

It’s also important to provide them with a variety of toys to keep them entertained and stimulated. Mondays enjoy spending time outside their cages and should have a variety of perches, swings, and ladders for climbing.

Nanday conures can be quite destructive if not provided with the proper type of enrichment. They love to chew and shred items so having plenty of safe items in their cage will help keep them busy and give them an outlet for their natural behaviors.

Nanday conures can also be sensitive to stress and may become aggressive if not handled properly. It’s important to socialize them from a young age so that they are accustomed to being around people.

Overall, the Nanday Conure is an intelligent and active species that makes a wonderful pet. They require plenty of attention, exercise, and toys to stay healthy and happy.

While they can be quite vocal at times, these birds are full of personality and make great conversation companions. With the right care, Monday conures are sure to bring lots of joy and fun into their new home.

10. Scarlet-fronted conure

The Scarlet-fronted conure, also known as the Red-masked conure or Cherry-headed conure, is native to the Andes mountains of South America.

These birds have red heads and chests, while their back and wings are green with blue tips on their feathers. They can reach up to 12 inches in length and can live up to 30 years.

Scarlet-fronted conures are highly social birds and do best when kept in pairs or larger groups. They are also very active and need plenty of space for flying around. Offering a variety of toys is important to keep them busy, as well as providing bird-safe branches from which they can hang and climb.

Scarlet-fronted conures are considered one of the quieter types of conure, but they do have a loud repertoire that includes whistles, chirps, beeps, and squeaks. They may also mimic some human words or sounds. This species is generally easy to train with positive reinforcement methods, making them popular pets.

Overall, the Scarlet-fronted conure is a beautiful and intelligent bird that can make an endearing companion with many years of companionship. While they may not be as talkative as some other species, they still provide plenty of entertainment and joy with their playful personalities.

11. Mitred conure (Psittacara mitratus)

Mitred conure is a medium-sized bird that can reach 12 inches in length. They are also known as red-headed conure and Mitred parakeets. The coloring of the Mitred conure ranges from green, yellow, turquoise, and blue with a distinct red head.

They have long pointed tails, long wings, and short beaks. Mitred conures are very vocal, making shrill calls as well as chirps and whistles. They can say a few words but usually have limited talking ability.

Mitred conures are smart and inquisitive birds that require plenty of attention from their owners. If left alone for extended periods of time, they can become bored and develop behavioral problems.

They require a lot of physical activity with plenty of toys to keep them entertained. Mitred conures are social birds that enjoy interacting with their owners and other bird species.

These birds can be good pets but they may not be suitable for families with young children or those that are inexperienced with birds.

They can be playful and nippy, so they may not be the best choice for households with small children. If adequately socialized, Mitred conures can make wonderful pets that are loyal and loving.

Mitred conures do well in aviaries or outdoor cages but should always have access to a secure indoor area when temperatures drop.

They are hardy birds that can withstand temperatures down to 40F and up to 100F. These birds require plenty of natural light and should have access to a varied diet including fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and pellets.

Due to their popularity in the pet trade, Mitred conures aren’t considered threatened but they are facing some population declines in their natural habitat. Their range is found in Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Peru.

It’s important to buy Mitred conures ethically from a reputable breeder or pet shop instead of contributing to the illegal bird trade. If you’re looking for an active and social pet that requires plenty of attention and mental stimulation, the Mitred conure may be a great choice for you.

12. Blue crowned conure (Thectocercus acuticaudatus)

The Blue-crowned conure is considered to be one of the most beautiful conures. It has a bright blue head, green wings and tail, and yellow highlights on its chest. They can reach up to 12 inches in length from their beak to the tip of their tail feathers.

These birds are native to South America, ranging from eastern Honduras to western Peru and Brazil. In the wild, they typically live in tropical dry forest habitats and are often found near rivers or water sources.

These birds are usually quite social and love interacting with their owners. They can be quite noisy at times but their loud chattering is usually kept to a minimum when well-trained. Blue-crowned conures are also quite intelligent and can be taught to do tricks on command.

These birds have an average lifespan of about 20 years, provided they get the love and attention they need. They require plenty of space for exercise and play, so having a large enough cage is important for their health and well-being. Blue-crowned conures are relatively easy to care for and make great pets for experienced bird owners.

13. Dusky head conure (Aratinga weddellii)

Dusky head conures are one of the smaller varieties, usually reaching about 12 inches in length. They have a bright green body with yellow wings and tail feathers, and a dark gray head. They can make great pets, as they are very social and affectionate. They also have quite a large vocabulary–they can learn to say dozens of words and phrases.

They do, however, need a lot of attention and interaction in order to stay happy and healthy. As with all conures, they will benefit from having access to plenty of toys, especially ones that involve problem-solving or movement. It’s best to give them plenty of out-of-cage time as well so they can explore and stretch their wings.

Diet-wise, they should be given a mix of pellets, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They usually enjoy eating cooked eggs as well. Overall, dusky head conures are friendly and loving birds that make wonderful companion animals for the right family.

14. Green Cheeked Conure (Green)

The Green Cheeked Conure, also known as the Green Conure or simply the “Green,” is a small, playful conure that is native to South America. They are usually between 8 and 10 inches in length with a wingspan of about 12-14 inches. The Green’s most recognizable feature is its bright green cheeks that contrast with its overall green plumage.

The Green is social and loves to play in flocks, but it can be territorial when new birds enter its space. These conures are relatively easy to care for but require plenty of attention and stimulation to stay happy.

Green Cheeked Conures are omnivores and enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as pellets, seeds, and nuts. They should be provided with a variety of toys to keep them entertained.

Since these birds are active and love to explore new things, it is important that they have plenty of room to fly around in their cage or aviary. Greens are very vocal and will make many different sounds from chirping to squawking.

Green Cheeked Conures are very social and often form strong bonds with their owners. They can be easily trained to do simple tricks, like stepping up on command or turning in circles when asked. They can also be taught to talk, though not all Greens will learn this skill.

Green Cheeks are an excellent choice for families looking for an affectionate pet bird. With their outgoing personalities, these conures make great companions and can be a lot of fun to have around.

15. Peach-fronted conure (Eupsittula aurea)

The peach-fronted conure, also known as the peacock conure or rose-breasted conure, is a small bird native to South America. It is one of the most common and popular pet birds in its range and has been kept as a pet for centuries due to its bright colors and personality.

The peach-fronted conure is a playful and affectionate bird, making it an ideal pet for those looking for an interactive companion.

The peach-fronted conure has a mainly green body with yellow markings on the face, neck, and wings. The chest and belly are orange or pinkish in color, giving them their common name of ‘peach-fronted’. They are typically 11-12 inches in length and have a long, pointed tail.

In the wild, peach-fronted conures live in small flocks and feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. In captivity, they require a similar diet with additional fresh vegetables and fruits offered regularly to ensure good health. As with other parrots, they should be provided with plenty of chew toys to keep their beak trimmed and sharp.

Peach-fronted conures are highly social birds and can become very close with their owners. They are known to form strong bonds with their people and may even learn to speak a few words or phrases. They also enjoy the company of other birds and will often form strong social relationships with them.

Care & Diet Requirements of Pet Conures

When it comes to pet conures, a proper diet is incredibly important for their health and well-being. A balanced diet should include a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds – specifically designed for parrots.

If you are unsure of what types of food to offer your pet conure, consult with your local veterinarian or an experienced bird breeder for guidance. Avoid feeding your conure any type of foods that are high in fat, sugar, or salt.

In addition to a proper diet, pet conures require plenty of fresh water every day. Although they do not need baths, you should periodically spray your bird with warm water to help keep their feathers and skin clean and healthy.

Cage Types & Accessories for Pet Conures

When selecting a cage for your pet conure, it is important to choose one that is large enough to provide ample room for the bird to spread its wings and move around freely. It should also include plenty of perches in different sizes so your conure can comfortably roost and move around the cage easily.

A good rule of thumb is to provide a living space that allows for at least 24 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches for each conure.

The type of cage you choose will also depend on the size and activity level of your pet conure. If your bird is fairly active, then it might be best to choose a larger cage that provides plenty of room for the bird to move around and explore.

On the other hand, if your pet conure is more docile and content with just sitting in one spot, then a smaller cage may be sufficient.

When it comes to materials, stainless steel or powder-coated cages are ideal as they are easy to clean and will not rust. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the cage wire spacing does not allow your pet conure’s head to become entrapped in the wires.

In terms of accessories for the cage, perches should be provided in different sizes, and supplies of fresh water and food dishes should also be kept in the cage. Toys and other items that promote physical activity, such as a swing or ladder, should also be included to give your conure plenty of entertainment and interaction throughout the day.

It is also important to pay attention to the placement of your pet conure’s cage. The ideal spot for the cage should provide enough space for the bird to move around and spread its wings without feeling restricted. Additionally, it is best to ensure that the cage does not receive direct sunshine as this can overheat your pet’s conure.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that all conures need daily interaction with their owners. Therefore, it is essential to provide plenty of quality time outside of the cage so that your pet conure can interact and bond with you.

Overall, providing your pet conure with a suitable cage and the appropriate accessories can help ensure that it gets the best possible quality of life.

By selecting the right size, materials, and types of items for your bird’s living space, you will be able to create a comfortable and stimulating environment for your pet conure.  At the end of the day, it is all about ensuring that your pet conure feels safe and secure in its living space.

With some thoughtful consideration, you can help create a home for your feathered friend that is both enjoyable and stimulating.

Conclusion

Conures are some of the most beloved pets in the world, providing people with plenty of love and entertainment. They come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors which makes them perfect for any type of home.

Whether you’re looking for a small pocket-sized conure or a larger parrot-like one, there is sure to be one that is perfect for you and your family. As long as you are aware of their needs and ready to provide them with adequate care and attention, conures can make fantastic companions.