Maroon Bellied Conure

The Maroon Bellied conure is a very popular pet parrot. Thanks to their affordable price, availability, pretty looks and wonderful, silly personality, these little conures have charmed their way into many families across the world. For anyone who’s on the lookout for their perfect pet parrot, these cuddly goofs might be the right choice. Their personality makes them suitable for families, but singles as well. One thing is certain – with a pet like this one, you are guaranteed a wonderful friendship and a one that can last for up to 35 years, to boot.

These little conures are among the friendliest and cutest in the species. They make great friends and companions.

Their native habitat is found in a fairly large part of South America. It spans large parts of Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. They thrive in the local woodlands, dense forests and the unique Pantanal wetland habitats. Sometimes they can even be spotted in large urban parks and gardens, flying in flocks of up to 12 birds. Their numbers are stable in the recent years, although they suffered greatly in the 1980’s at the hands of illegal loggers and poachers. Since then about 50000 birds have been recorded in the illegal market. Luckily, measures have been taken to ensure the survival of the breed, and now it has a “least concern” status.

Overall Description

These conures are largely similar to the closely related breeds, such as the Green Cheeked and Blaze Winged conures. But still, with a few distinguishing traits and color patterns, these lovely birds stand out on their own. The adults reach an average length of up to 11 inches (28 centimeters) and can weigh about 3 ounces (95 grams). Keep in mind that the large portion of their size is taken up by the distinctly long tail. In essence, these are small birds. But they still need plenty of room and exercise. It’s best to find a roomy cage suited to their size.

Even if they are considered as one of the quietest conure breeds, these little birds have a questionable natural call. When they are excited and overly happy, they tend to express their happiness with a shrill and piercing call. Although it doesn’t occur often, it can still be an issue for owners who live in apartments. A few words here and there can be heard, but often sounding silly and mumbled. In general, these birds might be stimulated by their environment. In large, lively families Maroon Bellied Conure might be noisier than usual.

When first seeing the Maroon Bellied conures, you almost immediately notice their charming beauty and cute faces. With a very subtle mix of soft colors, these birds are pretty and easy on the eyes. The dominant color is green, with distinctly darker shades on the wings and back. The belly is lighter green, with a unique pattern that resembles scales. The chest is slightly brownish. They get their name from two parallel crimson patches on the lower belly. The underside of the tail shows a mesmerizing pattern of purple, crimson and blue colors – one of the birds iconic and stunning details. With these lovely tones and a refreshing look, the Maroon Bellied conure will be the centerpiece of every home.

A unique mix combination of blue, purple, and crimson colors on the underside of the tail is the crowning detail of this parrot.

Pet conures will thrive on the commercial seed or pellet based mix that is designed especially to suit their needs. It closely resembles the nutritional values of their diet in the wild which consists of insects, fruits, pollen, and seeds. They have a mischievous tendency to dip their food into their drinking water. This creates the need for regular water replacement. A good addition to their diet is found in fresh fruits and vegetables. This important source of vitamins ensures a balanced diet and a healthy parrot.

Conures are well known for their good health and adaptability. You will need to provide them basic care and attention, and in return, you’ll have a healthy, enduring pet. You’ll want to eliminate any potential threat to their well being, and these include draft, excess heat or cold, and neglect. Being intelligent and social birds, they will quickly learn to like human interaction. That’s why it is important not to deprive them of some social time – whether it’s playing or cuddling.

Maroon Bellied conures are very friendly and quickly become attached to their owners. Offer them a lot of social interaction during the day.

These conures are amongst the friendliest pet parrots on the market. They are a cuddly and kind bird, with a great and affectionate nature. Thanks to this sweet personality, they became a popular choice for pet parrots. They are also very active and energetic birds, with a particular desire to explore new nooks and crannies and investigate the house. So keep an eye out on their movements during the day. Other than that, you can expect a fun and loving parrot with which you will quickly fall in love with. Thanks to their good lifespan, you can count on a lifelong friendship with your feathered companion.

Photo credit: Kimberly Palmer/Shutterstock; Tracy Starr/Shutterstock