Hand Fed Fiery-Shouldered Conure - Pyrrhura egregia

Noise Level & Talking Ability

In general, fiery-shouldered conures are fairly quiet birds. They are capable of being somewhat noisy at times, especially when they are seeking attention, but are still suitable for apartment living. Like most Pyrrhura species, their capability of repeating words is limited. They are able to talk, however they are not known for being particularly great or clear talkers. Most of their noises are squawks, squeaks, and peeps.

Physical Features

Fiery-shouldered conures have a typical parakeet shape and stature. The head and neck appear proportionate to the body, which is somewhat round with a gradual taper toward the tail. The tail is approximately the length of the body and is fairly uniform in width until the last quarter which quickly narrows to just one or two feathers wide. The bird's head and body are green overall with a greyish cap extending almost to the nape. Their is faint reddish feathers near the ear. The beak is a light horn colour, and they have a featherless, white periophthalmic ring like other Pyrrhura species. The upper breast and neck are patterned with short whitish-grey striations that extend almost all the way around the neck except for the nape. The lower breast and upper abdomen are green, the lower abdomen may have a burgundy patch and in some individuals, randomly dispersed orange and yellow feathers (more common in the subspecies P. e. egregia). The bend of the wing and the underwing coverts are bright orange and yellow, the flight feathers are blue. The underside of the tail is a dark grey-brown, the upper side is deep maroon - almost black. The legs and feet are light grey. 

Pet Profile

Fiery-shouldered conures make very fun pets and are well suited to those looking for a playful, interactive bird. They are sassy and outgoing, which can prove to be a handful at times. In general this species is considered better suited to those with previous bird experience, or to confident, mature owners who are comfortable carrying out proper discipline and behaviour corrections. Fiery-shouldered conures are loved for their ability to learn and for their bubbly personalities. 

Diet

The main diet should consist largely of quality pellets and fresh prepared vegetables. Fruit can be given but does tend to be high in sugars and acids, so smaller amounts at a time is ideal. Seeds and nuts should be given in controlled amounts as they tend to be less nutritious than other foods. On an average day seeds and nuts should not account for more than about 20% of what the bird eats. It is worth noting that sprouted seeds are more akin to vegetables, and thus can be fed more frequently. Fresh water must be accessible all the time. 

Housing

Fiery-shouldered conures are active, energetic birds that require a decent amount of space. As with just about every bird kept in captivity, horizontal space needs to be prioritized over vertical. The cage "footprint" should be around at least 4 square feet. A variety of toys need to be provided. Especially foraging and preening toys as conures are very social, inquisitive birds. It is important that the perches are not all one material or diameter to promote good grip strength as well as prevent what is commonly known as bumblefoot. The cage should be located in an area where the bird will be able to interact with people often, in most cases this will be the family room or rec-room. The kitchen is not a great place to house your bird. 

Breeding Information

Wild Status

Decreasing - Least Concern
Last assessed October 2016 for the IUCN Red List