Quaker vs Conure: 5 Tips to Help You Choose
Whenever I think of getting a pet, I can’t get my finger on what to get. I know that sounds a bit funny, but there are so many options, from dogs to birds and even cats. Heck, some people are keeping lizards and geckos too!
In my quest for the perfect pet, I came across Quakers and conures. Now, if you’re thinking about getting birds for pets, these are the best you can find.
There are similarities between Quakers and conures. Both exist in the wild and in pet stores. However, the Quaker parrot seems hardier than the conure.
That aside, it’s vital to know if the Quaker and conure are great birds. So, I’ve gathered some information to help you choose between the two.
Quaker vs Conure: Are They Good Birds?
My knowledge of birds was not as vast a few years ago. I thought all little birds were parakeets. One time, my friends and I went to a bird sanctuary, and I have to say the variety blew my mind.
Three are about 18,000 bird species worldwide, and not even half of those were in the sanctuary, but I have to say, there were a lot of birds! We came across Quakers and conures on the long list of bird species.
There are notable differences between the monk parakeet (Quaker) and sun parakeet (conure). As a result, it’s necessary to look at certain factors when getting either bird.
So, are Quakers and conures good bird species?
Quakers and conures are excellent birds. They are not hard to care for or too demanding. After all, they are beautiful birds that live up to 30 years. In addition, Quakers and conures are social birds, so you’re bound to have a good time bonding with them.
I understand that finding a good pet is not a walk-in and walk-out kind of thing. However, once you start looking into bird species, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Birds, especially Quakers and conures, are easy to keep in the house.
After all, you won’t get into trouble with your neighbors because of the barking (if you know what I mean).
Before I go on and on about these lovely birds, it’s vital to know more about them.
Quakers and Conures: Background Information
The conure and Quaker parrot originate from South American countries. The birds do well in open country and wooded areas.
Quakers and conures often live in dry and shrubby areas (in the wild). Quaker parrots have moved from their regions of origin with time, spreading to Europe and North America.
However, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, the conure is endangered.
Domestication for these birds began a while back and is becoming increasingly popular, primarily because of their exotic nature.
The Benefits of Keeping Quakers and Conures
Sure, walking a dog is fun. However, not everyone can care for a dog. Besides, different residential areas have rules on pet keeping (mainly for larger animals).
I chose to check out birds. Not only because they are beautiful but because my house isn’t fenced in, so I can’t keep a dog. So, here are the perks of keeping Quakers or conures.
Small Size
Quakers and conures are a perfect size. However, the aviary should be at least nine feet long. Nonetheless, you don’t need large spaces to accommodate these beautiful birds. Their sizes make it easier to keep Quakers and conures.
Companionship
These birds have big personalities. Therefore, spending time with them will be a blast. They get attached to the one who cares for them and has excellent talking abilities. I have a Quaker, and I can say I’ve had the best conversations with the bird than most people.
Ease of Care
Most pets are expensive to feed and care for. Quakers and conures eat simple meals and snacks. As long as you formulate a suitable diet for them, you’re good to go. Spending quality time with them makes them happy too.
What are the Differences Between Quakers and Conures?
Quakers and course are great, no doubt. But there are some distinct differences you should know before choosing.
Physical Appearance
Quaker parrots are usually green and gray. They have pale gray abdomens, throats, cheeks, and foreheads. Quaker parrots’ feathers below the abdomen look olive green, fading into yellow. However, the head and back feathers are green. The beaks are pinkish-brown.
On the other hand, conures have bits of a striking red on their feathers. There’s also a touch of yellow, orange, and slight green on the wings. Conure beaks are black. Differences aside, both have white patches around the eyes.
Diet
In captivity, these birds eat the same things. Their diets consist of the following:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Seeds
- Greens
- Cheeses
- Commercial pellets
In the wild, though, Quaker parrots have a more diverse diet. Quakers will eat roots, inset cans cacti too.
Behavior
We all want well-behaved pets. While it’s necessary to get your pet used to our environment and schedule, animals have a natural way they act.
There’s no need to sweat it when it comes to Quakers and conures. Quaker parrots are incredibly social. Moreover, they build community nests, Quakers are good around humans and other birds.
Conures are not so different. They are social birds and need human interaction daily. Still, it’s essential to note that they get loud when ignored or excited.
Environmental Concerns
Quaker parrots originate from tropical areas of the world and have found homes in many other regions. As a result, Quakers can easily adapt to most environments.
Unfortunately, conures are not so lucky. They are an endangered species in the wild, making them very rare to find in pet stores. Currently, the conure population is between 1,000 to 2,500 birds.
Are There Different Types of Quakers and Conures?
There’s never a dull day with these birds. There are many varieties of Quakers and conures. Here’s a breakdown for both species. I’ll only list a few because there are many varieties of both birds.
Yellow Quaker
These birds originate from Peru and Ecuador. Their feathers are much yellower, making them stand out more while in their element.
Red Quaker
Red Quakers are very rare and only found in certain parts of Brazil. Red Quaker parrots account for less than 1% of Quakers sold as pets. So, if you have one, count yourself lucky.
Green Quaker
If you thought red Quakers are rare, green quaker parrots are only a handful in the world. They make up less than 0.5% of the total population. The unique coloring resulted from genetic mutation occurring in captivity.
Green-cheeked Conure
These birds have the shortest lifespan worldwide. Why? They live up to 15 years. Green-cheeked conures are also tiny at around ten inches long.
Jenday Conure
This conure is beautiful, with distinct color bands running along their bodies. They have red bellies and yellow or orange heads. In addition, their eyes have a bright red ringing. Jenday conures are the most ornamental birds to keep.
The Bottom Line
If you were conflicted about what bird to get (like I was), you now have enough information to make a more informed choice.
Quakers and conures are excellent pets to have, but it’s vital to note the minor differences to ensure you provide the best care.
Resources
The Nest: Quaker Parrot Varieties