Are Conure Birds Good Pets? A Complete Guide

Conure parrots are among the most popular companion birds due to their playful personalities and striking colors. But before you bring one home, it’s essential to ask: Are Conure birds good pets?

The answer depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and ability to provide the proper care. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of Conures as pets, their needs, and whether they’re the right choice for you.

What Are Conure Birds?

Conures are small to medium-sized parrots native to Central and South America. Popular species include:

• Sun Conure (Aratinga solstitialis)
• Green-cheeked Conure (Pyrrhura molinae)
• Jenday Conure (Aratinga jandaya)
• Blue-crowned Conure (Thectocercus acuticaudatus)

They typically live 20–30 years with proper care, making them a long-term commitment.

Why Conures Make Good Pets

1. Affectionate and Social

Conures are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. Many enjoy cuddling, shoulder-riding, and being part of family activities.

2. Playful and Intelligent

They love toys, puzzles, and interactive games. With training, they can learn tricks and simple words.

3. Colorful and Attractive

Species like the Sun Conure are prized for their brilliant orange, yellow, and green plumage.

4. Manageable Size

Smaller than macaws or cockatoos, most conures are easier to house in medium-to-large cages and are less intimidating for first-time bird owners.

Challenges of Owning a Conure

1. Noise Levels

• Aratinga conures (e.g., Sun Conures) are extremely loud, which can be difficult in apartments.
• Pyrrhura conures (e.g., Green-cheeked Conures) are quieter, but still vocal.

2. Chewing and Destruction

Like all parrots, they need plenty of chew toys. Without enrichment, they may damage furniture or become frustrated.

3. Time Commitment

Conures require several hours of daily interaction. Loneliness can lead to feather plucking or screaming.

4. Lifespan and Responsibility

With up to 30 years of life, a Conure is not a short-term pet—it’s a lifelong companion.

Ideal Owners for Conure Birds

Conures are best suited for:

• Families or individuals who spend time at home
• Active owners who enjoy training and playing
• Households tolerant of noise
• Committed pet keepers ready for decades of responsibility

Not recommended for:

• Owners who are frequently away
• Those living in noise-sensitive environments (apartments with strict rules)
• People seeking a “low-maintenance” pet

Care Essentials for a Happy Conure

• Housing: Large cage (minimum 24” x 24” x 30”) with plenty of toys
• Diet: Balanced mix of pellets, fruits, vegetables, and seeds
• Veterinary Care: Annual avian vet check-ups and emergency planning
• Social Interaction: At least 2–3 hours daily outside the cage
• Training & Enrichment: Positive reinforcement, flight space, chew toys

Expert Verdict: Are Conure Birds Good Pets?

Yes—Conures make excellent pets for the right owner. They are loving, entertaining, and intelligent companions. However, their noise, time demands, and long lifespan mean they are not suitable for everyone.

If you are prepared for the responsibility, a Conure can bring decades of joy and companionship.

FAQs

1. Are Conures good for beginners?

Green-cheeked Conures are often recommended for first-time parrot owners because they are smaller and quieter than Sun Conures.

2. Are Conures cuddly?

Many Conures enjoy cuddling and being close to their owners, though this varies by personality.

3. How long do Conures live?

With proper care, most Conures live 20–30 years.

4. Are Conures noisy?

Yes. Sun and Jenday Conures are very loud, while Green-cheeked Conures are quieter but still vocal.

References

• American Federation of Aviculture – Conure Care
• World Parrot Trust – Companion Parrot Guide
• Ritchie, B., Harrison, G., & Harrison, L. (2022). Avian Medicine: Principles and Application