If you are considering a Sun Conure Parrot as a pet you need to really understand the bird and its needs so that once you commit, it can be for a lifetime. Here are 5 things to know about this wonderful bird before you bring it home. And hopefully, knowing all about the bird before you bring it home will lead to a permanent match for you both.
Physical Traits-It's considered a little bird in the Parrot species-only about 12 inches and weighing in between 4 and 5 ounces, and they have life spans up to 30 years. The muted green color that they are born with serves them well in the wild as camouflage until about age 1.
Upon maturity the feathers turn brilliant with vivid oranges, reds, blues, greens, and yellows. Their beaks are black and feet are grey. They have a white ring around their beautiful dark brown eyes. If you are looking for a bird that is visually striking, this bird is for you.
Sounds-The Conure is a screamer. Screaming can indicate that it is not receiving enough human attention, or that it is in some way unhappy. The Conure is not a good choice if you live in an apartment or house that is connected to another where these screams can become an issue for your neighbors.
The good news is that with proper training much of the screaming can be stopped. And if not, they make wonderful burglar alarms when strangers approach. Before you commit, try being around one for a while to get an idea of how loud they really are, and decide whether the noise will be tolerable for you and your family. Better to decide before rather than after you've brought it home.
Personality-Inquisitive, and intelligent, it is definitely a very outgoing bird. It loves to clown, and can be taught to speak a few words, and do a variety of tricks. It can also imitate household sounds such as microwave buzzers, ringing phones, and alarms of every kind. It loves human contact, both physical and emotional, and needs a home where it can interact constantly by being housed in an area where there is lots of activity.
If you and your family are away from home a lot, this is not a good choice for you or the bird. It can be nippy, but regular socialization and training can nip this in the bud and make it safe for you and children in the family.
Nutritional Needs-A diet of sprouted seeds and pellets, leafy green vegetables, fruits and nuts augmented with a mineral block will go far towards keeping your bird healthy. Remember to use a variety of foods, and rotate them to stimulate interest. An unlimited supply of fresh water is a must.
Maintenance-These are pretty easy birds to keep. They appreciate a spray of warm water or placing of a shallow bowl of water in their cage for a bath once a week.
Keeping their air clean by filtering fine particulates such as dust, dander, and feather will keep their air passages clear and reduce their chances of contracting disease and infection. Using a high efficiency particle (HEPA) air purifier will insure that its air passages remain clear, and cut down on the risk of infection and disease.
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