Green Cheek Conure – Quiet, Intelligent, and Affectionate Parrot for UAE Pet Owners

The Green Cheek Conure (Pyrrhura molinae) is a small to medium-sized parrot known for its gentle personality, quiet nature, and playful energy. Loved for its affectionate temperament and expressive eyes, it is a favorite among bird enthusiasts in the UAE, especially those living in apartments or quieter households.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we offer hand-raised Green Cheek Conures that are healthy, well-socialized, and suitable for both first-time bird owners and experienced parrot keepers across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates.

Appearance and Characteristics

Green Cheek Conures are compact parrots measuring around 25 to 26 cm in length and weighing approximately 60 to 80 grams. Their base color is green, with distinctive markings that vary depending on the mutation. Most have a grayish head, maroon tail feathers, blue wing highlights, and red or maroon belly patches. Color variations include cinnamon, turquoise, yellow-sided, and pineapple, all of which may be available depending on availability.

Their small size, combined with a playful and expressive face, makes them particularly attractive for pet owners seeking a bird that is easy to handle and house.

Temperament and Behavior

Green Cheek Conures are friendly, interactive, and less noisy compared to other conures. They are highly intelligent and curious, making them easy to train and bond with. While they do enjoy attention, they are not overly demanding and can adapt well to family life, including homes with children.

Behavioral highlights:

• Gentle and affectionate toward their owners

• Less prone to loud screeching, making them suitable for apartment living

• Capable of learning tricks, mimicking sounds, and playing games

• Curious and energetic, requiring toys and daily interaction

• Can form strong, loyal bonds with individuals or families

Although not typically strong talkers, they can learn to mimic simple words and sounds over time, especially when raised in a stimulating environment.

Housing and Environmental Needs in the UAE

Green Cheek Conures are active and benefit from a well-equipped cage and safe space for daily out-of-cage time. For homes in the UAE, ensure the environment is not exposed to extreme temperature changes from AC or direct sunlight.

Recommended cage and setup:

• Minimum cage size of 24 x 24 x 30 inches

• Bar spacing of ½ inch or less to prevent escape

• Multiple perches, climbing toys, and foraging items

• Covered sleep area for uninterrupted rest at night

• Indoor temperature between 22°C and 28°C is ideal

Daily out-of-cage playtime and interaction are necessary to keep the bird happy and healthy. A play gym or perch stand is highly recommended.

Diet and Feeding Guidelines

A balanced diet is essential for feather quality, immune function, and overall health. Green Cheek Conures should have a varied menu that includes high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Typical daily diet:

• Parrot pellets as a base

• Fresh vegetables like kale, broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers

• Fruits such as apple, banana, grapes (seedless), and berries in moderation

• A small amount of seed or nut treats for enrichment

• Fresh drinking water changed daily

Toxic foods such as avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and anything salty or processed should be strictly avoided.

Lifespan and General Care

Green Cheek Conures can live between 20 to 30 years when well cared for. They benefit from routine, gentle handling, and consistent social interaction. They are emotionally sensitive birds and should not be left alone for extended periods without stimulation.

Care tips:

• Daily interaction or social play

• Clean cage and feeding bowls regularly

• Rotate toys weekly to keep mental engagement high

• Schedule annual wellness checkups with an avian vet

At Sahara Exotics, our Green Cheek Conures are raised in interactive settings to ensure they’re comfortable with human handling and ready to bond in their new UAE home.