Conures: General Information

There are numerous species of conures (Aratinga and Pyrrhura species and others), but only a few are commonly kept as pets. Conures are native throughout Mexico and Central and South America. 

Members of this group of birds are considered small- to medium-sized birds and are characterized by long slender bodies, long tapered tails, and medium-sized beaks. They are gregarious, mischievous birds known for their sassiness and may nip or screech if they do not get what they want.

Tame conures can be affectionate, social birds that demand a moderate amount of daily attention. Conures are not well known for possessing a large vocabulary, but they are well known for screaming loudly at times. Conures are bold and inquisitive. They love to play and chew. Providing non-toxic, bird-safe wood and paper-based toys will afford many hours of entertainment for this curious little pet.

Some commonly kept Aratinga species include the jenday conure, blue-crowned conure, nanday conure, mitred conure, dusky conure, and sun conure. Some commonly kept Pyrrhura species are the green-cheeked conure, pineapple conure, and maroon-bellied conure.

Where can I get a conure?

Conures may be purchased from pet stores or reputable breeders, or adopted from rescue organizations. Young birds may be easier to tame and train than older, wild-caught, colony- or parent-raised birds. Hand-raised babies are often more affectionate pets, since they have been socialized with humans. Young birds typically adapt more readily to new environments and situations.

"Young birds typically adapt more readily to new environments and situations."

After a period of acclimation, new birds should be exposed early to different events (different people, other pets, car trips, visits to the veterinarian, etc.) to help them become calmer, more well-adjusted pets. Healthy birds are more likely to be lively, alert, and not easily stressed. After bringing your new bird home, you should have it examined by an avian veterinarian within the first 7 days to help ensure that your new conure is healthy.

What veterinary care do conures need?

Annual veterinary health examinations are highly recommended for pet conures, like all other pet birds. Your veterinarian can perform a physical examination, grooming (including nail or wing trims, as necessary), and laboratory tests, as needed. During these annual health check-ups, your veterinarian can address nutritional and healthcare issues. 

Annual veterinary check-ups help prevent disease, ensure your conure is fed a well-balanced diet, and help maintain a long-lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird. The Association of Avian Veterinarians website (www.aav.org) is useful for finding an avian veterinarian in your area. 

Characteristics and Housing

Color: The predominant body color of most conure species is green. Different species have different feather coloring, including red, orange, blue, yellow, brown, black and white. Juvenile conures’ coloring is like the adults.

Sexing: There are no obvious external sex differences between males and females of most species.

Weight: Average Aratinga species weight is 100–200 grams; average Pyrrhura species weight is 55–70 grams.

Size: Average size is 9-20 inches (23-51 cm) in length; size depends on species.

Lifespan: Average lifespan is 20–35 years.

Breeding: Sexual maturity occurs at 1–3 years (depending on species). Most species are prolific breeders in captivity.

Brood size: 2–5 eggs hatch in 23–35 days. Parent-raised young leave the nest in 6–8 weeks.

Cage size: Minimum 2 ft wide x 2 ft tall x 3 ft long (60 cm x 60 cm x 90 cm).

Diet: Ask your veterinarian for proper nutrition recommendations.