The Sun Conure (Aratinga solstitialis), also known as the Sun Parakeet, is a medium-sized, vividly colored parrot native to northeastern South America. Known for their striking orange, yellow, and green plumage, playful energy, and strong bonds with owners, Sun Conures are highly sought after by bird enthusiasts looking for a colorful, engaging pet.
Sun Conure Characteristics
Size: 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
Weight: 100–120 grams.
Lifespan: 20–30 years with proper care.
Color: Bright yellow and orange body, green wings, and blue flight feathers.
Temperament: Extremely social, playful, affectionate, and intelligent.
Sun Conure Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Sun Conures are highly social, intelligent, and affectionate birds that form strong bonds with their owners. They are known for their playful antics, cuddly nature, and clown-like behavior.
Noise level warning: Sun Conures are loud compared to many other parrots and may not be suitable for noise-sensitive households or apartments.
They require daily interaction, mental stimulation, and out-of-cage time to prevent boredom, feather plucking, and behavioral issues.
Diet and Feeding
A balanced diet is crucial for Sun Conure health and longevity:
Pellets: Should form the base of their diet.
Fresh vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
Fruits (moderation): Apples, mango, berries, melons.
Nuts and seeds: Used sparingly for training treats.
Clean, fresh water daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and foods high in salt or sugar.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Minimum 24” x 24” x 30” with bar spacing of ½ to ⅝ inches; larger is always better.
- Exercise: At least 3–4 hours of out-of-cage time daily in a safe, supervised environment.
- Enrichment: Chew toys, foraging toys, swings, and rotating enrichment items to prevent boredom.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and bathing opportunities or misting.
- Veterinary care: Annual check-ups with an avian veterinarian.
Common Health Problems
Sun Conures can develop:
- Feather plucking: Often due to stress, boredom, or poor diet.
- Obesity: If overfed seeds or fatty treats without adequate exercise.
- Respiratory infections: From drafts or poor ventilation.
- Psittacosis: A bacterial infection that can be transmitted to humans.
Watch for lethargy, changes in droppings, appetite loss, or feather condition issues, and consult an avian vet promptly if needed.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $500–$1,000 USD depending on breeder reputation, hand-raising, and regional availability.
- Where to buy:
- Reputable, ethical breeders who hand-raise chicks for socialization.
- Avian specialty stores with clear health documentation.
- Bird rescues or adoption organizations.
Avoid impulse buying and ensure you are ready for their noise and lifelong commitment.
Are Sun Conures Good Pets?
Sun Conures can be fantastic pets for owners ready for a lively, social, and demanding companion.
They are affectionate and can learn tricks, target training, and basic speech.
However, their loud calls and need for daily attention make them best suited for owners prepared for the responsibility.
Conservation Note
Wild Sun Conure populations are declining due to habitat loss and capture for the pet trade. Always choose captive-bred Sun Conures from ethical breeders or consider adopting from rescues to support conservation-friendly practices.