Education
-
What is a conure?
A conure is a type of small to medium-sized parrot that is popular as a pet. There are many different species of conures, and they vary in size, color, and behavior. Conures are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction from their owners. They are known for their playful, affectionate, and sometimes noisy personalities. Conures are omnivores and require a diet that includes seeds, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally insects or small animals. They need a spacious cage that is at least 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 24 inches tall.
​
-
Where do conures come from?
Conures are native to Central and South America. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and scrublands. There are many different species of conures, each with its own unique range and habitat. Some of the most popular species of conures kept as pets include the Sun Conure, Green-cheeked Conure, Blue-crowned Conure, and Nanday Conure.
​
-
How many species of conures are there?
There are over 40 different species of conures, with some sources indicating over 50. The exact number of species is somewhat disputed, as different authorities may group or split certain populations. Some of the most popular species of conures kept as pets include the Sun Conure, Green-cheeked Conure, Blue-crowned Conure, and Nanday Conure
​
-
What are the different types of conures?
There are many different types of conures, each with its own unique appearance and characteristics. Here are some of the most commonly recognized types of conures:
Sun Conure
Jenday Conure
Blue-crowned Conure
Nanday Conure
Green-cheeked Conure
Maroon-bellied Conure
Dusky Conure
Mitred Conure
Black-capped Conure
Patagonian Conure
Crimson-bellied Conure
Golden-capped Conure
Fiery-shouldered Conure
Half-moon Conure
Peach-fronted Conure
This is not an exhaustive list, as there are many more species of conures that are less commonly kept as pets.
What do conures eat in the wild?
​
-
What do conures eat as pets?
In the wild, conures are omnivores and eat a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, insects, and small animals. As pets, conures require a balanced diet that mimics their natural diet as closely as possible. A good diet for a pet conure should include:
Pellets: High-quality, organic pellets specially formulated for conures. Pellets provide a complete and balanced diet and should make up about 70% of the bird's diet.
Fresh fruits and vegetables: Conures should be offered a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables daily, including leafy greens, carrots, sweet potato, berries, and apples. These should make up about 20-30% of the bird's diet.
Seeds and nuts: Conures enjoy seeds and nuts as a treat, but they should be offered in moderation as they are high in fat. A few seeds or nuts can be given as a reward or training treat.
Protein: Conures require protein in their diet. This can be provided through cooked eggs, chicken, or small amounts of lean meat. Insects such as mealworms or crickets can also be given as a treat.
​
It's important to note that a varied and balanced diet is key to keeping a pet conure healthy. A diet that is too high in fat or lacking in certain nutrients can lead to health problems such as obesity, vitamin deficiencies, and other health issues.
​
-
How often should I feed my conure?
Adult conures should be offered food once or twice a day, depending on their feeding schedule and habits. Conures are naturally active and require a lot of energy, so it's important to provide them with enough food to meet their needs without overfeeding them.
​
It's recommended to offer a conure a portion of food that they can consume within 15-20 minutes. This helps to prevent overeating and also keeps the food fresh. If the bird has not finished the food within this time, it's best to remove the food and offer a fresh portion later.
​
It's also important to make sure that the bird always has access to fresh, clean water. The water should be changed daily to prevent bacteria buildup and keep the water fresh. Conures may also enjoy bathing in their water dish, so it's a good idea to offer a shallow dish of water for this purpose.​
​
-
What kind of habitat do conures need?
Conures need a spacious, stimulating, and safe environment to live in. They are active birds that require plenty of room to move around and play, so a cage should be as large as possible, with plenty of room for the bird to move around, climb, and spread its wings. A minimum cage size for a small to medium-sized conure should be at least 24" x 24" x 24", with larger cages for larger species.
​
The cage should also be equipped with perches of varying diameters, textures, and heights, as well as toys and other enrichment items to keep the bird mentally and physically stimulated. Conures also need exposure to natural light and fresh air, so it's recommended to place the cage near a window with natural light and to open the window for fresh air (while making sure the bird cannot escape).
​
In addition to a cage, conures should be given plenty of opportunities to exercise outside of their cage, such as playtime outside the cage in a bird-proofed room or outdoor aviary (supervised, of course).
It's important to keep the cage clean and sanitized, with fresh food and water provided daily. Conures are messy eaters and drinkers, so it's important to clean up spills and messes as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth and odor.​
​
-
Are conures noisy?
Yes, conures can be noisy birds, especially during the morning and evening when they are most active. They are known for their loud calls and vocalizations, which can be a concern for owners who live in apartments or close quarters with neighbors.
​
However, not all conures are equally noisy, and the noise level can vary between individuals and species. Some conures are naturally quieter than others, while some are known for their loud vocalizations.
​
Additionally, with proper training and socialization, conures can be taught to vocalize at appropriate times and to minimize excessive noise.
It's important to note that conures are social birds and require interaction and stimulation from their owners or other birds to maintain their mental and emotional health. If a conure is excessively noisy, it could be a sign of boredom or stress, and addressing these underlying issues can help reduce the noise level.
​
-
How can I train my conure to be quieter?
Training a conure to be quieter requires patience and consistency. Here are some tips on how to train your conure to vocalize at appropriate times and to minimize excessive noise:
​
Positive reinforcement: Conures respond well to positive reinforcement, so reward your bird when it is quiet and calm. You can use treats, praise, or a favorite toy as a reward.
​
Identify triggers: Observe your conure and identify what triggers the excessive noise. Is it a certain time of day, a particular noise or activity, or a lack of attention? Once you know the trigger, you can work on addressing it.
​
Teach the "quiet" command: Teach your conure the "quiet" command by saying "quiet" in a calm, firm voice when it is being noisy. When it stops making noise, reward it with a treat and praise. Repeat this process until it learns to associate the "quiet" command with being quiet.
​
Provide plenty of stimulation: Conures need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Provide plenty of toys, perches, and activities to keep your conure entertained and engaged. This can help reduce boredom and excessive noise.
​
Be consistent: Consistency is key when training your conure to be quieter. Set a regular routine for your bird, including meal times, playtime, and quiet time. Stick to the routine as much as possible, and be patient as your conure learns new behaviors.
​
Remember that conures are social birds and require interaction and stimulation from their owners or other birds to maintain their mental and emotional health. If your conure is excessively noisy, it could be a sign of boredom or stress, and addressing these underlying issues can help reduce the noise level.
​
-
How do I train my conure to talk?
Training a conure to talk can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires patience and consistency. Here are some tips on how to train your conure to talk:
​
Start with basic sounds: Begin by teaching your conure basic sounds, such as "hello" or "goodbye." Repeat the word or phrase clearly and slowly, and reward your conure when it tries to repeat it.
​
Use positive reinforcement: Conures respond well to positive reinforcement, so reward your bird with a treat, praise, or attention when it makes an effort to talk. This will encourage it to keep trying.
​
Repeat frequently: Repeat the same word or phrase frequently throughout the day, and reinforce your conure's attempts to mimic it. This will help your conure learn the sounds and associate them with certain actions or situations.
​
Be patient: Teaching a conure to talk takes time, and some birds may never learn to talk. Be patient and consistent in your training, and don't get discouraged if your conure doesn't start talking right away.
​
Mimic your conure: Mimic your conure's sounds and vocalizations to encourage it to mimic you in return. This can help your conure feel more comfortable and confident in its attempts to talk.
​
It's important to note that not all conures are equally talkative, and some species are more likely to learn to talk than others. Additionally, male conures tend to be more vocal and talkative than females. With consistent training and patience, however, most conures can learn to mimic basic words and phrases.
​
-
How long can conures live?
The lifespan of conures can vary depending on the species and the care they receive. On average, conures can live anywhere from 10 to 30 years, with some living even longer with proper care.
Here are some estimated lifespans for some common species of conures:
Green-cheeked conure: 10 to 15 years
Sun conure: 20 to 30 years
Jenday conure: 20 to 30 years
Blue-crowned conure: 25 to 30 years
Nanday conure: 20 to 30 years
To help your conure live a long and healthy life, provide it with a balanced diet, plenty of exercise and stimulation, regular veterinary check-ups, and a safe and comfortable living environment.
​
-
What kind of toys do conures like?
Conures are intelligent and playful birds that require mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Here are some types of toys that conures often enjoy:
​
Chew toys: Conures love to chew, and providing them with safe and durable chew toys can help keep their beaks healthy and prevent boredom. Toys made from natural materials like wood, bamboo, or corn husks can be a good choice.
​
Puzzle toys: Puzzle toys challenge your conure's problem-solving skills and can keep them engaged for long periods of time. Toys with hidden treats or compartments to explore can be especially appealing.
​
Swings and perches: Conures enjoy swinging and perching, and adding different types of swings and perches to their cage can provide variety and stimulation. Natural wood perches with different textures can be beneficial for foot health.
​
Foraging toys: Foraging toys simulate the process of searching for food in the wild, which is an important part of a conure's natural behavior. Toys with hidden treats or small compartments to explore can provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom.
​
Noise-making toys: Conures are social and vocal birds, and providing them with noise-making toys like bells or toys that make crinkling or rattling sounds can help satisfy their need for social interaction and activity.
When choosing toys for your conure, be sure to select toys that are safe, durable, and appropriate for their size and species. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom and keep your conure engaged and entertained.
​
-
How often should I clean my conure's cage?
It's important to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your conure to live in, and this includes cleaning their cage on a regular basis. Here are some guidelines for how often you should clean your conure's cage:
Daily cleaning: Clean your conure's food and water dishes daily, and replace any soiled bedding or cage liners. Remove any uneaten food to prevent mold or bacterial growth.
Weekly cleaning: Perform a more thorough cleaning of your conure's cage once a week. Remove all toys, perches, and accessories, and scrub them with hot, soapy water. Wipe down the cage bars, bottom, and sides with a bird-safe cleaner, and rinse everything thoroughly with water. Allow everything to dry completely before reassembling the cage.
Monthly cleaning: Once a month, do a deep cleaning of your conure's cage. This involves removing all bedding, perches, and toys and thoroughly scrubbing them with hot, soapy water. Use a bird-safe disinfectant to clean the cage bars, bottom, and sides, and rinse everything thoroughly with water. Allow everything to dry completely before reassembling the cage.
In addition to regular cleanings, be sure to spot clean any messes or spills as soon as they occur to prevent bacterial growth or odors. Providing your conure with a clean and healthy living environment can help prevent illness and keep them happy and healthy.
​
-
Do conures need to take baths?
Yes, conures enjoy bathing and it's important for their hygiene and health. In the wild, conures bathe in rainwater or bodies of water like rivers and streams to keep their feathers clean and healthy. As a pet owner, it's your responsibility to provide your conure with opportunities to bath
There are different ways to give your conure a bath, and you may need to experiment to find out what your bird prefers. Here are some methods you can try:
Spray bottle: Use a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water to mist your conure. Spray lightly and aim for the feathers, avoiding the face and eyes. Some conures enjoy mist baths and will spread their wings and flutter around in the water.
Shower: You can take your conure into the shower with you and let them get wet from the mist or the running water. Be sure the water is not too hot and avoid getting soap in their eyes or nostrils.
Bowl of water: You can also provide your conure with a shallow bowl of lukewarm water to bathe in. Place the bowl in their cage or on a flat surface and let them splash around.
It's important to make sure the water is not too cold or too hot, and to supervise your conure while they bathe to ensure their safety. Bathing your conure regularly can help keep their feathers healthy and prevent skin and feather problems.
​
-
Can I keep more than one conure together?
Yes, you can keep more than one conure together. Conures are social birds and enjoy the company of other birds, especially those of the same species. However, there are some things you should keep in mind when keeping multiple conures together:
​
Introduce them gradually: If you are introducing new conures to an established group, do it gradually and carefully. Make sure the birds are supervised during their interactions and give them plenty of time to get used to each other.
​
Provide enough space: Conures need plenty of space to move around, exercise, and explore. Make sure the cage or aviary is large enough to accommodate all the birds comfortably.
​
Provide enough resources: Make sure each bird has access to food, water, and toys. It's a good idea to provide multiple feeding and watering stations to prevent competition among the birds.
​
Be aware of aggressive behavior: While conures are generally social birds, they can become aggressive towards each other. Keep an eye out for signs of aggression, such as biting or squawking, and be prepared to separate the birds if necessary.
​
Consider the species: Some conure species are more social than others. For example, the green-cheeked conure is known for being particularly friendly and social, while the golden conure can be more aggressive and territorial. Be sure to do your research on the specific species you are considering keeping together.
-
How do conures bond with their owners?
Conures are social birds and can form strong bonds with their owners. Here are some ways that conures bond with their owners:
-
Spending time together: Conures bond with their owners by spending time with them. They enjoy being around their owners and will often seek out their attention.
-
Talking and mimicking: Many conure species are known for their ability to mimic human speech and sounds. When conures talk or mimic sounds, it can be a way for them to bond with their owners and communicate with them.
-
Physical contact: Conures enjoy physical contact with their owners, such as being petted or cuddled. They also enjoy perching on their owner's shoulder or lap.
-
Training and interaction: Conures are intelligent birds and enjoy learning new things. Training and interaction with their owner can be a way for them to bond and build trust
-
.Offering treats: Offering treats to your conure can be a way to bond with them. You can use treats as a reward during training or as a way to encourage interaction.
It's important to note that bonding with your conure takes time and patience. Building a strong bond with your conure requires consistent positive interaction and care. With time and effort, your conure can become a loyal and affectionate companion.
-
Can conures be trained?
Yes, conures can be trained. Conures are intelligent and social birds, and with proper training, they can learn a variety of behaviors and tricks. Here are some tips for training your conure:
​
Start with basic training: When training your conure, start with basic behaviors such as stepping up onto your hand or perch, and target training. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as offering treats or praise when your conure performs the desired behavior.
​
Be consistent: Consistency is key when training your conure. Make sure to use the same commands and techniques every time you train your conure, and be patient and persistent.
​
Keep training sessions short: Conures have short attention spans, so it's important to keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and to train frequently throughout the day.
​
Use positive reinforcement: Conures respond well to positive reinforcement, so be sure to offer plenty of praise and treats when your conure performs the desired behavior.
​
Use a clicker: Clicker training can be an effective way to train your conure. A clicker is a small device that makes a distinct clicking sound when pressed. By clicking the device at the exact moment your conure performs the desired behavior, you can mark the behavior and reinforce it with a treat.
​
Remember to always use positive reinforcement techniques and to never use punishment or negative reinforcement when training your conure. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your conure can learn a variety of behaviors and tricks.
-
Are conures good pets for beginners?
Conures can make good pets for beginners, but they also have some traits that may make them challenging for first-time bird owners. Here are some things to consider:
Pros:
Conures are generally social, affectionate, and playful birds that can bond closely with their owners.
They are relatively small birds, which can make them easier to handle and care for compared to larger parrots.
Conures are also relatively quiet birds, so they may be a good choice for apartment living.
Cons:
Conures can be quite noisy, especially during their morning and evening vocalizations, which may be a problem for some owners.
They are active birds and require plenty of stimulation and exercise, so they need a lot of interaction and playtime with their owners.
Conures can be prone to feather plucking and other behavior problems if they are not given enough attention and mental stimulation.
Overall, conures can be great pets for beginners who are willing to put in the time and effort to provide them with proper care, attention, and stimulation. However, it's important to do your research and make sure you are ready for the commitment of caring for a bird before bringing one home.
-
Do conures bite?
-
How can I prevent my conure from biting?
-
How do I know if my conure is sick?
-
What are common health problems for conures?
-
How often should I take my conure to the vet?
-
Do conures need vaccinations?
-
What kind of bedding should I use in my conure's cage?
-
What kind of perches should I use in my conure's cage?
-
Can conures be potty trained?
-
How can I make my conure more comfortable in its cage?
-
How often should I give my conure fresh water?
-
Can conures eat human food?
-
How can I tell if my conure is male or female?
-
How do conures mate?
-
How long does it take for conure eggs to hatch?
-
How often do conures breed?
-
Are conures endangered?
-
Can conures be kept with other species of birds?
-
How can I introduce my conure to other pets?
-
Can conures fly?
-
Should I clip my conure's wings?
-
How do I clip my conure's wings?
-
Can conures be trained to do tricks?
-
What kind of socialization do conures need?
-
How can I prevent my conure from getting bored?
-
Can conures be left alone for long periods of time?
-
How do I prepare for a new conure?
-
What are some common myths about conures?
-
How can I find a reputable breeder for my conure?