About Green Cheek Conures

About Green Cheeks

The Greencheek Conure, or Green-cheeked Parakeet, ( Pyrrhura molinae) is native to west-central and southern Mato Grosso, Brazil, through northern and the highlands of eastern Bolivia to northwestern Argentina. They prefer forest areas, where they form big flocks and can often be seen at treetop level. This conure is endangered in its natural habitat (CITES II). In the wild, they eat various seeds and fruits and probably other kinds of vegetable matter.

Description:

The Green-cheeked Conure is primarily green, with a grey breast, dark head, maroon tail and blue flight feathers. Its average weight is about 70 g - but the general weight range of this species is between 60 to 80 grams. The average length (including tail) is 10 - 11 inches (25 -27 cm).

They are very similar to the Maroon-bellied Parakeet or Conure (P. frontalis).

They reach maturity at 1 to 3 years -- the smaller Conures mature more quickly. In a safe, healthy environment, they can expect to live up to 35 to 40 years.

Personality:

Green cheeks are playful and cuddly birds. The Green Conures have big personalities for such small birds. They have become a favorite in the pet trade because of their sweet personalities and fun disposition. They are playful, affectionate and intelligent.

It is said that they are second only to the cockatoos in terms of cuddliness. They like to be held (although some like it more than others) and can learn tricks such as lying on their backs and "kissing." However, individual differences do exist, as some green conures will accept cuddling only on their terms. But these are the exception to the rule. Most seem to thoroughly enjoy cuddling whenever their favorite human is available.

Most will hold their own with any of the mid-sized or medium-large parrots in terms of smartness.  They are also, like most parrots, very smart and can be taught simple tricks pretty easily and more complicated tricks with some work.