Sun Conure
Riverview Park and Zoo
Sun conures are known for their bright colours, friendly demeanor, and intelligence! Also known as the sun parakeet, these small birds in the parrot species are one of many aviaries that call Riverview Park & Zoo home.
Both adult females and adult male sun conures have similar coloration. The top half of their wings are yellow with orange on their face and abdomen. The bottom half of their wings are green, when extended to fly the blue feathers underneath are exposed. Each time the birds molt, their feathers get more colourful, reaching full adult colouration between 18 months and two years old.
The sun conure feeds on fruit, berries, and nuts using their curved beaks, characteristic of parrot species. They are typically found in northeastern Brazil and neighbouring Guyana, as they prefer mountainous, forest habitats and usually live in small flocks. Sun conures have a loud call which can carry for miles, this often helps them locate each other in the wild while out foraging for food. Although commonly heard throughout the day, they can most notably be heard at sunrise and sunset.
The sun conure is listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Their decline is mainly attributed to illegal poaching for the pet trade. Practice responsible pet ownership by doing thorough background research into the biology, life history, needs and source of any pet you may be considering.
This year our annual Fun Run, happening on June 29th, 2024, will support our birds here at the Park and Zoo, including sun conures, emus, peafowl, golden pheasants and more! Register for the Fun Run at www.riverviewparkzoofunrunandwalk.itsyourrace.com/event or visit our website to support the only free admission accredited zoo in Canada: www.riverviewparkandzoo.ca
By Carmyn Lake, Public Educator
Riverview Park and Zoo
Local Humane Societies
Lakefield Animal Welfare Society
2887 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield • 705-652-0588
www.lakefieldanimalwelfare.org
Peterborough Humane Society
1999 Technology Drive, Peterborough • 705-745-4722
www.peterboroughhumanesociety.ca
Animal Rescue Krew (ARK)
3307 Lakefield Rd., Lakefield • 705-651-0069
Home Again Bancroft
613-474-3450 • www.homeagainbancroft.ca
Humane Society Of Kawartha Lakes
705-878-4618 • www.hskl.ca
