Talking ability:
They can be taught a simple words or phrases. Each bird is unique
and the talking will depend on the interaction it receives from you the teacher and caregiver. Socialization is key…introduce
your new baby Maroon-Bellied to many situations and people!
Noise:
Maroon-Bellied Conures are among the quieter Conures. Volume is not nearly as loud
as the larger conures. Frequency of noise is moderate. Expect some squawking at dawn, when entering or leaving the house,
and if disturbed while trying to take a nap or while sleeping. The volume level is very well suited for apartment living.
Frequency tends to increase if they don't get enough attention or toys. These birds don't seem to mind a noisier household,
making them more suitable for families with children. Although, expect them to join in as your household noise level increases.
Unique characteristics:
The Maroon-Bellied Conures are intelligent, friendly and active. They adapt easily to human
contact and are easily trained. They are bold and independent and yet generally have a very sweet personality and they are
growing fast in popularity.
Maroon-Bellied Conures will dangle by one foot from the top of the cage to check out the view,
and will hold food or treats with a foot while eating. Like many parrots, they also like dunking their food into their drinking
water -- creating a messy soup requiring the water to be changed frequently.
Many of them enjoy bathing or showering with
their owners. Bathing water needs to be provided daily. They enjoy being scratched
all over, usually while lying upside down in your hand or on a lap. These birds have no dander, (like a cockatiel does),
making them a better choice for those with allergies. They have big personalities
for small birds, and will entertain you!
Problem behavior:
-They can get a little carried away when playing.
-Their
love for bathing can be a problem with the water dish.
-They also like to dip their food in the water making some kind of "soup". This can be a
problem if you are not home to change the water frequently, because it can leave nothing to drink.
Curiosity:
While curiosity is one of the great characteristics of the conure, it can get him into a
ton of trouble. Particularly with other pets, the bath tub or any other water source. Keep a close eye on your Conure, as
this can easily become his very last bathe.
Recommended
equipment:
- Cage size:
I recommend a minimum of 18" x 18" x 24", with ½” bar spacing or less. Cage
size also depends on how much time the bird will be spending in the cage. A bird that just sleeps in the cage can be
housed in the minimum recommended cage size stated above: however, birds that spend much of the day in their cage would benefit
from a cage larger in size. This way a shallow water dish can be placed in the cage for taking baths. Always remember
to remove right after bathing!
-Play stand:
Provide your bird a place where it can get out for exercise, and have fun playing. There are
many different play stands on the market. So search around for one that best suits your life style and needs.
-Perches:
Provide your bird with a few different perches, ranging in diameter. Natural perches are best,
as they provide varying shapes which is best for your bird’s feet. Pedicure perch: This is a textured perch that helps
keep toenails trimmed and smooth, as well as the bird’s beak.
Diet:
I feed a good Pellet diet, (Zupreem) occasionally
I give them a small amount of a good fortified seed mix, as well as fruit, veggies, and sprouts. I also offer them
a cuttle bone and a mineral block.
