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Green-Cheeked Conure

Introduction

The Green-cheeked conure (Pyrrhura molinae) is named for the green feathers on its cheeks and belongs to the small conure group. They are one of the quietest conures, which makes them popular pets and show birds. Adults are 9–10 inches long, weigh about 60–80 grams, and live 20–30 years with proper care.

They are native to South America, mainly Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay, where they live in forests and woodlands. Green-cheeks are very social, intelligent, playful, and form strong bonds with their flock or keeper.

They are diurnal (active during the day). Their compact size, short tail, and bright coloration help them maneuver through dense foliage while staying visually connected to their flock.

Fun facts:

  • Known as “clowns” of the parrot world

  • Love hanging upside down

  • One of the best small parrots for apartments

Enclosure

Green-cheek conures need space to climb, flap, and play.

An ideal enclosure is at least 24 in x 24 in x 30 in, with horizontal bar spacing (½–⅝ inch) for climbing. Bigger is always better.

Use paper liners, newspaper, or cage mats as substrate. Avoid loose substrates. Provide natural wood perches, ropes, swings, and chew toys.

  • Ideal temperature: 65–85°F

  • Cold tolerance: Down to ~60°F briefly

  • Heat tolerance: Up to ~90°F with airflow

  • Humidity: 40–60%

  • UVB: Highly beneficial (avian UVB or supervised natural sunlight)

Diet and Hydration

Green-cheek conures are omnivorous parrots that need variety.

Daily Feeding Structure (adult):

  • Pellets: ~60–70%

  • Fresh foods: ~20–30%

  • Seeds/treats: ~5–10%

Staples:

  • High-quality conure pellets

  • Leafy greens (kale, collards, dandelion greens)

  • Bell peppers, carrots, squash

  • Apples, berries, mango, papaya

Treats:

  • Seeds (sunflower, safflower – limited)

  • Millet

  • Nuts (very small amounts)

No Feed / Toxic:

  • Avocado

  • Chocolate

  • Caffeine

  • Alcohol

  • Onion, garlic

  • Fruit pits/seeds

Hydration:
Fresh water daily. Many conures also enjoy misting or shallow bathing bowls.

Supplements:

  • Calcium from cuttlebone or mineral block

  • Multivitamins only if diet is unbalanced

Green-cheeks may become seed-addicted, so pellets should remain the base diet.

Health

Common health concerns include:

  • Psittacosis (Chlamydia)

  • Feather plucking from stress or boredom

  • Vitamin A deficiency

  • Respiratory infections

Signs of illness include fluffed feathers, tail bobbing, lethargy, or appetite loss. Routine avian vet care is essential.

Handling

Green-cheek conures are excellent handling birds when socialized.

Handling notes:

  • Enjoy shoulder time and cuddling

  • Can stress if ignored for long periods

  • Nipping may occur during hormonal phases

For shows:
✅ Great for school and birthday shows (with supervision)

  • Friendly and interactive

  • Light and easy to transport

  • Can handle multiple short shows per day

  • Comfortable in carriers

  • Tolerates warm environments well

They meet nearly all ideal show-animal requirements when trained and rotated properly.

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