SunCheek Conure (Everything You Need to Know)

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Ali Shahid

A sun cheek conure is a highly rare, sex-linked, and fascinating mutation of the green cheek conure developed by Steve in the United States.  The mutation is sex-linked, so the breeder must pair a visual female with either a visual male or a split male to produce a suncheek conure.

It has become increasingly popular around the world due to its stunning coloration. Sun cheek conures have playful, loveable, friendly, and energetic personalities just like green cheek conures. However, they exhibit bright yellow and red colors rather than the normal green color of the green cheek conure.

SunCheek Conure

As a result, they have a distinctive appearance that sets them apart from other birds. The suncheek mutation consists of several mutations (American Dilute/Yellow-Sided Conure/Cinnamon) occurring in one bird, creating a worldwide interest among pet owners, pet shops, and breeders.

It is estimated that these rare birds live for 20 years. As a result of their rarity and high demand, these birds can cost as much as $1400. Continue reading to find exclusive information about the rare sun cheek conure.

Origin and History

The green-cheeked conure, a small parrot species native to South America, is commonly found in the wild regions of Paraguay, Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina. On the other hand, the suncheek conure represents a color mutation of the same species.

Therefore, you cannot find suncheek conures in the wild. As of now, there are no records of suncheek conures in the wild. In fact, the suncheek conure variety was developed by an individual named Steve Garvin in the United States.

A color mutation occurs when a bird’s coloration differs from nature’s typical appearance. Although their appearance is distinctive, the suncheek conure does not appear to be a hybrid or a distinct species.

Suncheek Size and Appearance

Suncheek conures have red and yellow feathers instead of the emerald green of green-cheeked conures. Red markings on suncheek conures vary from bird to bird. In General, Suncheek conures boast a stunning array of physical characteristics that make them truly captivating.

With their ruby eyes, white beak, and white feet, they exude elegance. The vibrant combination of orange and golden yellow on their breast, coupled with the pastel crown and lime back, creates a striking contrast.

The platinum-blue flight feathers and brilliant orange-red tail feathers bursting from their yellow body add an enchanting finishing touch. They are about 10 inches long and weigh between 60 and 80 grams.

Suncheek Conure Grading Based on Red Coloration

The Suncheek’s beauty is truly breathtaking. Its remarkable blend of red and yellow colors is particularly striking, with a high demand for red saturation on its front and face.

To aid collectors and breeders, experts in mutation colors have devised a tentative grading system based on the red color in the bird’s plumage.

This system enables them to assess the level of red saturation in birds available on the market. While the red is most intense in fledglings, it may slightly fade after molting, but it never entirely vanishes.

Grad A+ Suncheek

Distinguished by their exceptional features, Class A+ Suncheek birds exhibit a striking difference from others of their kind. Notably, their red coloration extends not only to the abdomen but also covers the breast and neck areas.

This deep and extensive red hue stretches from the neck down to the chest and belly, while their shoulder/wing bends boast a captivating crimson splash. Additionally, certain specimens are displaying a peach hue on their heads, accompanied by a fiery mask that surrounds their eyes.

Class A Sun Cheek

Class A birds display a captivating red face, though their coloration is slightly lighter compared to the A+ Red-Faced Suncheeks. These Class A individuals typically have around 85-95% full red coverage on their chest, with significant amounts of red visible on the neck and breast.

While the head color remains normal, there may still be a mild mask present as opposed to the extremely high percentage of red-faced suncheek. Some Class A birds might also feature scattering of red on their wing bends.

Class B Suncheek

Class B suncheeks are identifiable by their distinctive traits, which include fewer red markings scattered on the breast, while the abdomen retains its vibrant coloration.

Personality

Suncheek conures possess green cheek conures’ loveable and friendly personality. They are very gentle, friendly, and playful. Like green cheek conures, suncheek conures are very suitable for families because of their docile nature. There is a very low probability of being bitten by a suncheek conure.

If you do not have experience raising a bird this rare bird is an ideal choice for you. Moreover, unlike other conures, they are not generally loud. In fact, they have the lowest noise level in the conure world. While they can be noisy sometimes but it is very rare.

Caring for Suncheek Conures

Cage: Like Green cheek conures, Suncheek conures require a cage that is at least 24 inches square and 30 inches high with metal bars spaced about 1/2 inch apart. In addition, you should also provide multiple perches and toys in the cage. These accessories are an essential part of a cage and will keep your bird busy and entertained.

Diet: Suncheek conures need a well-balanced and varied diet to live a healthy life. In general, these birds require 1/4 cup of pellets, two tablespoons of fruits and vegetables, and one tablespoon of seeds. This diet will fulfill your conure’s nutritional requirements and keep it healthy.

Outside Cage time: While cages are needed to provide a safe and secure environment, outside cage time is also important for your suncheek conure. Suncheek Conures are very curious birds and they love to explore things. In the long run, a regular outside cage time of 2-4 hours will ensure the physical and mental health of your conure.

Grooming and Bathing: Whether you choose to bathe your suncheek conure regularly or use a mist spray, you will certainly enjoy it.

Lifespan

Suncheek conures are expected to live up to 25 years. However, these are the upper limits. If not provided with good care their lifespan will reduce to 10-15 years. With proper care, they can easily live for 20 years.

Where you can Get a Suncheek Conures

As I mentioned earlier, suncheek conures are a rare mutation, so it may be difficult for you to locate one in your local bird store. Additionally, you cannot get a Suncheek conure from an adoption center like Adoptapet or Petfinder.

So, where can you obtain a sun check conure? Well, some breeders specialize in breeding suncheek conures. They offer suncheek conures for sale. The following are some names of trusted breeders:

• Petskingdom.ca (Available in Stock at $899.9)
• Goldencockatoo.com (Available in Stock at $1399.9)
• Brendasbirds.com (Available in Stock at $999.9)
• Parrotstars.com (Out of Stock)

As you can see, Suncheek conures are priced between $899 and $1400. Please note that these are real-time prices as described on the sites above. If you are interested in purchasing one, you may visit any of the websites mentioned above and place your order.