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The cinnamon green-cheeked conure is a color mutation of the green-cheeked conure or parakeet. These birds are distinct from the typical green-cheeked conure because of their lighter green and fan feathering.
In this article, we will discuss the cinnamon green-cheeked conure in detail, including its origin and history, its specific colors and markings, and where you can find one of these birds.
Species Overview
| Common Names: | Cinnamon green-cheeked parakeet |
| Scientific Name: | Pyrrhura molinae |
| Adult Size: | Up to 10 inches long |
| Life Expectancy: | Up to 30 years |
Origin and History
The green-cheeked conure has origins in South America, specifically in Paraguay, Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil. They are most commonly found in wooded areas and tend to live in flocks of up to 20 birds in treetops. Their green coloration helps them to blend in with the trees and camouflage themselves from birds of prey and other predators.
The green-cheeked conure is a very popular pet bird, but its behaviors in the wild are not well-studied. What is known is that they tend to eat fruit, seeds, and flowers available to them from the trees in their natural habitat. Figs, in particular, comprise a large part of their diets in the wild.
Cinnamon Green-Cheeked Conure Colors and Markings
There are many different green-cheeked conure color mutations available. Every so often, a new mutation emerges. The cinnamon mutation is one that is sex-linked. The mutation blocks the conure’s melanin from being oxidized, which inhibits shades of black and gray from appearing on the bird. The cinnamon green-cheeked conure’s feathers are primarily pale lime green. Their heads are a tan color and their tail feathers are maroon.
Both the feet and beak are light-colored. By contrast, the typical green-cheeked conure has a darker green color, including on its head, and it has white rings around its eyes. Its beak and feet tend to be a gray color. Both cinnamon and classic green-cheeked conures are monomorphic, which means males and females have the same physical features.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Cinnamon Green-Cheeked Conure
It’s possible to find a cinnamon green-cheeked conure at a local animal shelter or bird sanctuary, especially if you are willing to travel to find one. Birds can live for a long time, and unfortunately, people often purchase them without realizing how much work they are going to be. Visit your local shelter in person or search for birds using a tool such as Petfinder. You can filter by species and distance from your home.
If you don’t have any luck at an animal shelter, you will most likely need to buy your bird from a breeder. Buying a cinnamon green-cheeked conure from a breeder is likely to cost you up to $500. Make sure to do your research to make sure a prospective breeder is reputable before buying any birds from them. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have.
You should consider it a red flag if your breeder seems to dodge your questions or refuses to let you tour their breeding facility.
Conclusion
Cinnamon green-cheeked conures are beautiful birds. Thanks to a sex-linked color mutation, they have a very distinct look compared to common green-cheeked conures. While you might find one of these birds at your local shelter, you will likely need to find a breeder if you are interested in bringing one home.
- You may also be interested in: How Much Does a Green Cheeked Conure Cost?
Featured Image Credit: Jida Xiu, Shutterstock
