Information on the Sun Conure Parrot

The sun conure parrot, scientifically named Aratinga solstitialis, is one of eight genera of the conure family of birds and measures about 12 inches from head to tail. In youth its coloring is an olive green, which serves to protect these birds in the wild.

  1. Coloring

    • Right around the age of one, the sun conure changes color from the muted olive to a brilliant rainbow of oranges, yellows, reds, blues and greens. The sun conure gets its name because flocks of these birds in flight create the appearance of a striking sunset.

    Training

    • Sun conures are reported to be some of the easiest birds to train and enjoy doing tricks for their owners. These birds are known to be highly intelligent and easily learn simple tricks.

    Behavior

    • Sun conures do not like to be ignored; they require a lot of attention from owners. Birds that don't receive enough attention take to biting and screaming loudly.

    Lifespan and Diet

    • A typical sun conure lives between 25 and 30 years and requires a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and cooked meats. Sun conures also enjoy organic pellets and diets that include seeds, nuts, wheat grasses and a mineral stone. Fatty seeds and nuts should be given only as treats, to avoid obesity.

    Sociability

    • Suns enjoy the company of other birds, living in large flocks in nature, and need constant companionship to stay happy. They imitate common household sounds, phones ringing, alarm sounds, doorbells and microwave noises, but they have limited speaking skills. When they do speak their voices are squeaky.

    Bathing

    • These brilliantly colored birds enjoy bathing and must bathe often during the summer as well as in the winter months. Provide a dish of water large enough for the bird to climb into, or a fountain in an outdoor aviary. Some birds enjoy showering with owners.