White-eyed Conure (Everything You Need to Know)

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Ali Shahid

The white-eyed conure also known as the white-eyed parakeet has a small tail and is green in color. Originally from northern South America, this species ranges from the eastern Venezuelan, Colombian, and Guianas regions, through Brazil, to northern Argentina and Uruguay.

As a pet, it is one of the most well-behaved conures. In comparison to other parrots, it is less noisy, nondestructive, and prone to talking rather than screaming. 

In the right environment, it is possible to keep a white-eyed conure as a devoted pet that is entertaining and loving. Continue reading to learn more about white-eyed conures.

White-eyed Conure

Overview of White-eyed Conure
Common NamesWhite-eyed conure, white-eyed parakeet
Scientific NameAratinga leucophthalmus
OriginNorthern South America
ColorGreen
Size13 Inches
Weight100-218gm
PersonalityPlayful, Curious, Active
Talking AbilityBest among all conures species
Noise LevelHigh
Clutch Size3-4
Lifespan20-30 Years
Price$600-$1000
IUCN StatusLeast Concern

Origin and History

Originally from northern South America, the white-eyed conure is now found throughout the world. In the north, it is found in Venezuela, Colombia, and the Guianas. In the south, it can be found across Brazil to northern Argentina and Uruguay. Among its preferred habitats are forests, woodland areas, savannas, and mangrove swamps. 

In 1776, German zoologist Phillipp Ludwig Muller described and cataloged the bird for the first time. This species’ scientific name comes from the ancient Greek words leukos, which means “white,” and ophthmus, which means “eye.”

Despite being heavily trafficked in the pet trade, the white-eyed conure remains a common species in the wild. Interestingly, white-eyed conures have 3 subspecies namely:

  • P. l. callogenys
  • P. l. leucophthalmus
  • P. l. nicefori

For a time, Finsch’s parakeet (P. finschi) was considered to be a fourth subspecies of white-eyed parakeet, but that is no longer the case.

Appearance

White-eyed conures are large green parakeets with cream or pinkish bills. Under the wings, the coverts of the bird are red-and-yellow, and its head and breast are marked with irregular flecks of red. 

This species is noticeably misnamed since its eyes are brown with bare white skin around the orbits. The majority of Psittacara parakeets possess this characteristic, although some of them have pale eyes.

White-eyed conures are recognized by their underwing pattern. The primary coverts of the underwing are red, with yellow bars bordering the greater coverts. The flight feathers also often have a yellow cast.

Consequently, the underwing consists primarily of yellow color with a red shoulder and a green secondary covert. Young white-eyed conures usually have all-green plumage and don’t have the distinctive underwing pattern of adults, making them harder to identify.

Personality

Among the Conure family, White-eyed Conures are among the more proficient talkers. It is possible to keep a White-eyed conure as a pet as long as it is well-socialized and loving. There is little evidence that they are destructive, and they do not generally scream.

Instead, they often mimic speech. They are generally known for being playful and curious, although their personalities vary from bird to bird. In general, conures are prone to loud behavior at times – sometimes more than others, depending on how they’re raised.

Speech and Vocalizations

Green cheek conures make repetitive and sharp calls that are almost metallic in tone. Additionally, they emit a variety of sounds including grating, scolding, and melodic tones.

Even though they are not among the loudest parrots, potential owners need to know their voices can be powerful and loud. Consequently, white-eyed conures may not be appropriate pets for apartments or condominium dwellers. 

Breeding

Nesting usually takes place in North America between March and April, in Argentina between November and December, and in northern South America between February and June. The nests are usually located in palm trees. In general, clutches consist of three to four eggs with a size of 31.0 x 25.0 mm (1.22 x 0.98 ins).

How to Care for White-eyed Conures

It is recommended that a single bird be kept in a cage that is of adequate size, with at least a footprint of 24 inches by 24 inches and a height of 36 inches. A sturdy perch and a variety of toys should be included in the cage.

The bird should be provided with a playpen outside of its cage where it can explore and exercise as it flies in and out of the house. In the wild, when foraging with other birds, these birds fly long distances.

So when kept as pets, they require space and opportunities to fulfill this instinct. White-eyed conures can adapt well to most climates around the world as long as they have proper sheltering available during colder months.

With that said, owners should always supervise their pets if taken outdoors since some areas may contain hazardous plants or predators such as cats and dogs that could pose a threat to them.

Here are some key points surrounding white-eyed conure health and care:
Provide a spacious cage with plenty of perches, swings, ladders, ropes, etc. Ensure fresh water and food dishes are changed daily
Offer an assortment of bird-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables, sprouts, seeds, nuts, pellets & grains
Playing games or giving your conure supervised out-of-cage time will help meet its exercise needs
Regularly groom your pet by providing baths or misting it with warm water

Diet and Nutrition 

White-eyed conures are smart, social birds that need just the right diet to thrive. In terms of food selection, a variety of seed varieties should be offered as well as fruits and vegetables for optimal nutrition.

To encourage healthy eating habits, it is important to offer different types of foods in small amounts so they don’t become dependent on one type of food or get bored with their meals.

When providing seeds to your white-eyed conure, make sure there is an adequate mix of grains such as millet, corn, oats, and wheat. You may also want to add some legumes like peas and lentils into the mix for added protein.

There is no limit to the amount of pellet food you can give them; they will consume only what they require. In terms of fresh fruits and vegetables, provide approximately one-eighth to one-quarter cups of food each morning and evening.

Additionally, supplementing their diet with fresh vegetables and fruits can provide essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid giving them anything salty or sugary because these items will not benefit their health in any way.

Providing your white-eyed conure with a varied diet will help keep them happy and healthy for years to come. With proper care and attention, you can ensure that your pet receives all the nutrients it needs while enjoying its mealtime treats!

Common Health Problems of the White-Eyed Conure

White-eyed conures are susceptible to a lot of infectious diseases common in parrots. Here is the list of all these diseases and conditions:

  • Conure Bleeding Syndrome
  • Proventricular dilatation disease
  • Aspergillosis
  • Parasites Infestation
  • Parrot fever
  • Crop Stasis
  • Egg binding
  • Feather Plucking

Ensure that your pet has a clean environment and a well-balanced diet to prevent illness. Get your conure vaccinated regularly and schedule monthly vet visits. In addition, encourage mental and physical well-being through a large amount of playtime.

Adopting or Buying a White-Eyed Conure

Generally speaking, it is hard to find white-eyed conures in pet stores and breeders. You have to wait a while for captive breeding to take off.

Typically, they are priced between $600 and $1,000. White-eyed conures may be available for adoption or rescue in some cases.

What Is The Average Lifespan Of A White-Eyed Conure?

The average lifespan of a conure is generally between 20 and 30 years, depending on the care it receives. Proper nutrition and diet are essential for maintaining good health.

Conures should be given a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, and other high-quality bird food. As far as taming process goes, it requires patience and consistency to bond with your pet.

Are White-Eyed Conures Good For First-Time Bird Owners?

Owning a pet bird can be an exciting journey, like learning to sail on the open sea. But it is important to ask if your first voyage should include a white-eyed conure in its crew.

Despite their affectionate personalities, their food habits and diet requirements must be considered before bringing them home.

Furthermore, this type of bird needs regular handling and attention if they are to stay healthy and happy, so they are best suited for experienced bird owners.

What Is The Best Type Of Cage For A White-Eyed Conure?

When it comes to housing requirements for birds, the type of cage is one of the most important considerations. Cages should be large and spacious enough to accommodate their social behaviors.

For white-eyed conures specifically, a good size would be at least 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep and 36 inches high with 1/2 inch bar spacing. The bars should also be made out of non-toxic materials such as stainless steel or powder-coated wire mesh.

Additionally, perches should be provided inside the cage so that your bird can exercise its feet muscles.

How Often Should I Give My White-Eyed Conure Baths?

If you have recently adopted a pet bird, then you may be wondering how often your feathered friend needs to be cleaned. To keep your pet healthy and happy, it is important to understand the grooming needs of birds—including bathing frequency.

When it comes to white-eyed conures in particular, they should receive regular baths at least once every other week.

This helps them stay clean and maintain their feathers’ natural oils for optimal health. Additionally, these playful parrots enjoy splashing around and playing with water during bath time!

Is It Necessary To Clip A White-Eyed Conure’s Wings?

Clipping a bird’s wings is not always necessary but it can be beneficial for pet owners who want to keep their birds safe. The taming process and the size of the cage are two factors that should be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not to clip a bird’s wings.

In general, if you have a larger cage with room for your bird to fly around in safety then wing clipping may not be needed. On the other hand, if your bird spends most of its time outside of its large cage, then you might consider clipping its wings so it cannot escape and get lost.

Conclusion

White-Eyed Conures are an incredibly social bird and can make a great addition to any family. With the proper care and attention, these birds can live for decades and bring joy to their owners during that time.

Despite all of this, first-time bird owners need to be aware of all the details involved in caring for them before committing.

Many people don’t realize how much goes into owning one, including finding out how frequently they need baths and whether they need their wings clipped.

But if you are prepared to provide your White-Eyed Conure with everything it needs, then you may just have found yourself a lifelong friend.

 Reference:

Harris, Robbie. “Breeding the White-eyed Conure.” AFA Watchbird 19.4: 61-63.

Author

  • Ali Shahid

    Ali Shahid is a veterinarian by profession and an animal lover. He loves to give expert opinions about different animals. He has worked in top organization of birds like Bigbird Feed and Poultry Research institute. He loves birds, especially parrots and has great experience in different parrot farms.

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