Cuckoo's Nest Aviary - Blue Crown Conure

Blue Crown Conures (Aratinga acuticaudata) are in the Aratinga family of Conures. They are indigenous to the mid-southern region of South America, spanning northwestern Argentina, Paraguay, Uraguay and an area of southwestern Brazil. They have a life expectancy of approximately 30-40 years.

They are one of the larger species of Conures weighing between 150-180 grams. Length from head to tail is between 14 to 15 inches. Colouring is generally green, with pale olive under the wings. The head is a faded royal blue. The eyes are encircled by a bare white patch of skin and the iris is reddish-orange. The lower mandible of the beak is black and the upper a horn color. True, a Blue Crowned Conure wouldn't take first prize in the most colourful parrot contest. However their charming, playful personalities easily make up for the difference.

The cage should be a minimum 20" x 20" with bar spacing between 5/8 or 3/4 inches. The location of the cage is important. Choose a location that offers the bird access to the family. As well, provide some privacy, natural sunlight, and an area for shade that is free from extreme fluctuations in temperature such as in the hallway near the front door. We cannot stress enough the importance of toys, in this case a sufficient supply of wood toys for chewing. Rotate the toys weekly to prevent boredom.

A balanced diet is recommended for Blue Crowned Conures. Offer a daily portion of a high quality pellets along with a daily serving of fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, pasta, and seed. Of course you can treat your parrot companion to a variety of birdie breads or other baked bird treats (see recipes for more details). Blue Crown's love to bathe in their water dish, so ensure they have fresh water daily. A water bottle is often used due to the bathing.

Nails and beaks can be maintained using Sandy Perches. Blue Crowns can be given showers using a spray bottle filled with plain warm water. Most Blue Crowns prefer to bathe on their own. Fill a heavy shallow dish with about 2 inches of plain warm water and put the dish in the sink or inside of their cage.

A Blue Crowned Conure is an excellent choice for someone considering acquiring a parrot. You will not be disappointed with your decision. They would make a wonderful addition to your family.


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