Conure Care Guide: How to Survive and Thrive

By -


Maybe you didn’t read my earlier rant about why conures might not be everyone’s cup of tea (read it here if you haven't) —or perhaps you read it and still thought, “Challenge accepted.” Either way, you’ve found yourself living with a feisty little rainbow chicken that screams like a smoke alarm and chews like a teething puppy.

Good news: while conures can be a lot to handle, they’re also incredibly rewarding companions when cared for properly. That’s why I put together this Conure Care Guide—to help you survive. 

Conure Care Guide: Surviving & Thriving With Your Pet

1. Embrace the Noise (and Train Smartly)

Your conure’s vocal cords come factory-installed with the volume permanently set at “stadium announcement.” Dawn and dusk? Expect opera. Hear a car honk? They’ll add backing vocals.

The trick isn’t to silence them (impossible) but to redirect the behaviour. Reward softer sounds with treats and praise, ignore attention-seeking squawks, and provide plenty of stimulation during noisy times of the day. Consistency is key—your bird will test your limits, but with patience, they can learn.

Pro tip: white noise machines can save your sanity (and your neighbours).

2. Toys, Toys, and More Toys

Conures are basically toddlers with feathers: curious, destructive, and eternally busy. A bored conure is a conure plotting chaos. Provide a rotation of chewable, shreddable, and foraging toys.

  • Shredding toys: paper, cardboard
  • Foraging toys: food puzzles, hidden treats
  • Chew toys: untreated wood, bird-safe ropes

Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh - a toy ignored today might be their new obsession next week.

3. Out-of-Cage Time is Non-Negotiable

These little dynamos need at least 3–4 hours outside the cage daily. Supervised, of course, because your phone case, laptop keys, and houseplants are all fair game.

Create a “bird-safe zone” with play stands, ladders, and perches to give them safe outlets for their energy. Remember, the more positive outlets you provide, the less they’ll chew on your furniture. (Well… maybe.)

Bird safe woods (enlisted in this article of mine - Cockatiel Care Guide) can be used for making perches or DIY toys.

4. Biting: Permanent Malligator Phase 

Yes, conures bite. Sometimes out of fear, sometimes out of loyalty, and sometimes just for fun. If your finger is their chew toy, remember: yelling “ow!” only entertains them.

Instead:

  • Stay calm. Gently put them down without drama.
  • Identify triggers—new people, strange clothes, sudden changes.
  • Work on positive reinforcement training to redirect bites into acceptable behaviour.

Over time, they’ll learn that hands bring treats, scratches, and fun—not conflict.

5. The Mess Factor 

Conures are expert food flingers. Expect seed shells, fruit bits, and mystery crumbs to appear everywhere. Cage liners, floor mats, and a handheld vacuum will become your best friends.

Daily spot-cleaning and weekly deep cleans are essential—not just for your sanity, but to prevent harmful bacteria or fungal growth that could sicken your bird.

6. Diet: More Than Just Seeds

~ Papaya, dragonfruit, beans, corn and almonds ~ 

Feeding your conure only seeds is the avian equivalent of giving a toddler a lifetime supply of French fries.

Aim for a balanced diet of fruit, veggies and seeds and make sure to introduce seasonal variety without making the blend monotonous. Consult your avian vet for diet specifics, because each bird’s needs vary.

7. Health & Vet Care

Conures hide illness brilliantly (it’s a survival instinct in all birds), so regular check-ups with an avian vet are non-negotiable. Annual exams, bloodwork, and weight checks help catch problems early.

Keep an eye out for:

  • Fluffed-up feathers and lethargy
  • Reduced appetite
  • Changes in droppings
  • Excessive plucking or self-mutilation

If you spot these signs, don’t wait—it’s vet time.

8. Mental Stimulation = Happy Bird

Training is more than a party trick—it’s brain food. Teach your conure simple commands (“step up,” “wave,” “turn around”), or more advanced ones if you’re ambitious. It keeps their brain busy and strengthens your bond. Daily sessions of 10 mins x 3 times a day should keep your birds bonding time with you, while puzzle feeders, flight training (if safe indoors), and interactive games keep them sharp and satisfied.

~ Carrots are often a training treat - weird but true ~

9. Plan for the Long Haul

Your conure could be with you for 25–30 years. That’s a bigger commitment than most relationships! Plan ahead:

  • Have a co-caregiver in case of emergencies.
  • Consider lifestyle changes (travel, kids, work shifts).
  • Think about guardianship if something happens to you.

These birds aren’t a “phase”—they’re family. 

The Bottom Line

Living with a conure isn’t easy. They’re noisy, messy, and sometimes downright exasperating. But with the right care, enrichment, and patience, they blossom into affectionate, hilarious, and intelligent companions who brighten your life daily.

If you’ve already got one of these feathery drama queens in your home, don’t panic. With this conure care guide to bring structure and understanding, you can turn the chaos into a rewarding, lifelong friendship.

That's all, folks.

Was this article helpful or lacking in any way? Drop in your responses and critiques in the comments; they’ll be most beneficial in helping this blog grow.

Any questions and ideas about future articles would be appreciated :)

I will be posting more articles covering rehabilitation, enclosures, diet, free flight, and training with various species, including turtles, snakes, dogs, and more.


If you have any changes you'd like to add or would like to request, feel free to contact me through the social media channels mentioned below.

  • Gmail - namratansahoo@gmail.com

 

Namrata Sahoo is an aspiring veterinarian with a deep passion for wildlife, exotic pets, and animal behavior. Through The Vet Diaries, she brings together her experiences, reflections, and scientific insights to make veterinary science accessible and relatable. Here, complex topics from animal health, behavior, and welfare are translated into accessible, engaging narratives. From reptile quirks to avian care and rodent myths, each article is crafted to bridge the gap between science and empathy — helping readers understand not just how to care for animals, but why they behave the way they do. Whether you're a vet student, pet parent, or just someone fascinated by the animal world, The Vet Diaries invites you to explore, question, and learn through curiosity and compassion.

Comments

  1. Anonymous5 October 2025 at 21:15

    Extremely well written. Kudos and best wishes to you

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts

From Nerves to Confidence: My PfA Internship Journey (collab. with IVSA India Magazine and PfA Bangalore)

By -
Image
~ A young macaque at the centre ~ When I first came across the announcement for the PfA internship, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. The notification spoke of a collaboration between IVSA India and People for Animals (PfA) Bangalore — a week-long internship crafted for some of the most passionate wildlife enthusiasts across the country. A mere seven days didn’t seem like much, but I was intrigued, slightly apprehensive, and undeniably eager to step into something unfamiliar. What I hadn’t anticipated was the sheer depth of experience and learning that would unfold over the course of that single week. Now, as I look back, it’s astonishing how much growth can be packed into just a few days. From reshaping my perspective to sharpening my skills, the journey left an impact far greater than I imagined. Here’s a glimpse into my seven-day whirlwind through one of the most remarkable wildlife-focused NGOs I’ve had the privilege of experiencing. ~ With the team at PfA Bangalore ~ ...
Read more

The Herp Index: Unveiling the Secrets of Reptile Behavior

By -
Image
Reptiles are often misunderstood. Cold-blooded, slow-moving, and mysterious, they don’t wear their emotions on their sleeves (or scales) like mammals do. But make no mistake—these creatures have a rich behavioural repertoire. If you’ve ever watched a bearded dragon bob its head, a snake flick its tongue, or a turtle bask under a lamp, you’ve witnessed a complex language of instinct and adaptation. In this edition of The Herp Index , we dive into the fascinating world of reptile behaviour—decoding the why behind the wiggle, the stillness, and the sideways glances of our scaly friends. 1. Tongue Flicking: The Snake's Super Sensor  If you've ever held a snake, you’ve likely seen it flick its tongue rapidly in and out. This isn’t a sign of aggression—quite the opposite. Snakes use their tongues to “taste” chemical particles in the air and transfer them to Jacobson's organ (or vomeronasal organ) in the roof of the mouth. Why it matters: Frequent tongue flicking me...
Read more

The Herp Index: How Do Pythons Eat?

By -
Image
Constrictor snakes — including boas, pythons, and some species of colubrids — are fascinating predators that employ a specialized method of feeding called  constriction . Unlike venomous snakes that inject toxins into their prey , constrictors use brute strength, anatomical precision, and a carefully orchestrated sequence of behaviours to subdue and consume prey . Their feeding process is a remarkable display of evolutionary adaptation involving sensory detection, muscular control, skeletal flexibility, and biochemical efficiency. Let’s dive into the detailed mechanism of how constrictor snakes eat, step by step, including the underlying biology. 1. Sensing and Locating Prey ~ Difference in location of nostrils and heat pits ~ Constrictors rely on a combination of olfaction , vibration sensing , vision , and, in some species, infrared heat detection to locate prey. Olfaction (smell) : The forked tongue collects scent particles and transfers them to the Jacobson’s organ ...
Read more

Rodent Rumors: Answering Common Misconceptions About Mice and Rats

By -
Image
~ Handling Remy ~ Several rodent species are heralded as cute animals worldwide. Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, chinchillas, and many more are popular pets that everyone might've seen in several households and social media platforms.  The rodents I find commonly slandered and misrepresented are mice and rats. Usually associated with gutters and trash cans, they're often considered lesser beings or lowlifes and garner little sympathy even from avid animal lovers.  While this does lead to several amusing encounters and reactions with people when they find I have reared and that I find mice and rats endearing, it's high time we clear the air of misconceptions about these critters.  Read on for more about how mice and rats aren't the nasty, offensive creatures people make them out to be and can be just as endearing a pet as your neighbour's hamster.  1. Mice and Rats are dirty, smelly animals. ~ Remy after her first bath* ~ This is quite untrue. Any animal will look, s...
Read more

Explore, Learn, Scale: The ARAV Mumbai Chapter Has Arrived!

By -
Image
The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) Student Chapter at Mumbai Veterinary College marks a new milestone for students passionate about herpetology. Established under the guidance of ARAV, this chapter aims to bridge the gap between curiosity and clinical expertise in reptile and amphibian medicine. Through interactive webinars, hands-on workshops, and collaborative learning, ARAV Mumbai provides a platform for aspiring veterinarians to explore diagnostics, husbandry, conservation, and medical care of reptiles and amphibians. Members will gain exclusive access to international resources, mentorship opportunities, and the Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery - all designed to enhance their academic and professional journey. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate biology of snakes, the delicate physiology of amphibians, or simply wish to expand your clinical horizon, ARAV Mumbai invites you to be part of a growing network that celebrates the art and s...
Read more

Signs of Aggression In Budgies: Behaviors To Look Out For

By -
Image
Budgerigars are the cutest, most amicable floofballs around.  They're not usually aggressive towards other birds by nature and will make up quickly after a slight scuffle.  But, under certain temperaments or if put in certain situations, they're also fierce, aggressive birds that given a chance will readily put their neighbour in a tight spot.  Here are some telltale signs of an aggressive bird - Signs of Aggression Typical signs of aggression in budgies and behaviour preceding a fight include -  1.  Lunging and attempting to bite or nip 2.  Screeching and hissing 3.  Flying and trying to land on another bird 4.  Plucking or pulling at another bird's feathers 5.  Chasing 6.  Head bobbing with feather fluffing with pinned irises (when the iris gets very small) Unless you observe two or more of these together repeatedly, keep in mind that these are general signs; your budgie may just be playing with the others.  Pinned irises are ofte...
Read more

Are Budgies Aggressive Towards Other Birds? Understanding Your Bird's Behaviour

By -
Image
Budgerigars, often called budgies, are one of the most popular bird species amongst bird owners. Their friendly personality, adorable character and active persona make them increasingly preferable when picking a pet as a new owner.  However, beneath that mischievous, cute disposition is sometimes a fierce, territorial avian that will not hesitate to dispose of others it dislikes; this can be seen when keeping them with other birds, including budgies. Here's a list of reasons why your budgie may be showing aggressive behaviour towards its fellow birds (my articles on signs of aggression and how to prevent aggressive behaviour have been linked in the section below) Why Is My Budgie Showing Aggression Towards Other Birds? Budgies, while not aggressive by nature, tend to show aggression under certain circumstances or due to their personal temperaments. In general, reasons for aggravation can include - 1.  Territorial Behavior : budgies can be highly territorial when they feel thei...
Read more

The Stray Dog Debate: Safety, Law, and What Really Works

By -
Image
This article is in collaboration with IDA Indievets A recent Supreme Court directive has stirred a nationwide debate: all stray dogs in Delhi are to be removed from public spaces and shifted to shelters within the next six months. While the intention—addressing public safety and reducing human-animal conflict—is understandable, the ruling has raised significant concerns among veterinarians, animal welfare experts, and urban planners. Below, we break down what the ruling entails, why implementing it isn’t straightforward, and what a more sustainable approach could look like. The Ruling in Brief On August 11, 2025 , the Supreme Court of India issued a directive to authorities in Delhi and the wider NCR region, ordering the removal of all stray dogs from public areas and relocating them to newly established shelters. The ruling requires: Capturing and housing stray dogs in shelters within eight weeks Ensuring each dog is sterilised, dewormed, immunised , and not rel...
Read more

What Can I Feed My Red-Eared Slider? Foods That My Turtles Love

By -
Image
~ Turbo trying to finish before the others come ~ Turtles are the literal definition of an introvert, with red-eared sliders being no exception. They also tend to be overly picky about what they’re fed, and as the owner, your pet deems it your job to figure out their moods and what they want to eat.  Furthermore, keeping your turtle on a plain diet of pellets is not the best idea. Thus, to make your life easier, I’ve compiled a list of foods my turtles love to give you an idea of  what you can feed your pet besides regular pellets.  Why aren't pellets enough for  my Red-Eared Slider ? There are several reasons why giving a completely pellet-based diet isn’t the best option for your pet, and this isn’t limited to red-eared sliders.   While the protein proportions may vary with age, turtles are primarily carnivorous and will require animal-based protein in their diet. Giving a wide variety of foods provides enrichment and stimulation and helps maintain nutri...
Read more

7 Reasons You Shouldn’t Get a Conure

By -
Image
Conures are undeniably gorgeous—bright feathers, big personalities, and parrot energy packed into a smaller body. But owning one isn’t all rainbow feathers and Disney moments. From the ear-splitting calls to the decades-long commitment, conures can be a handful—way more than many expect. Here’s why you might want to think twice before inviting one into your life. 1. They’re loud. Painfully loud. Once, I was walking home and heard a very distinct “RIO!”—from an entire lane away. Conures aren’t just “chatty.” They scream . Their calls can cut through walls, neighbours, and your last shred of peace, especially at dawn and dusk. And it’s not just irritating—it can stress them out. When a conure realises loud noises get attention, they’ll double down. Breaking that cycle requires training, boundaries, and sometimes an avian behaviourist… which isn’t exactly beginner-friendly. 2. Not exactly beginner material Yes, they’re smaller than macaws or greys, but they need the same level of ca...
Read more