How to Care for a Dusky Conure

The dusky conure is a great bird to consider if you live in an apartment as they are known for being quieter than most parrots. They are very playful and will crave your attention. The dusky conure should grow to about 11 inches tall and live for nearly 30 years. Read on to learn how to care for a dusky conure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Enclosure
• Substrate
• Perches
• Toys
• Fortified seed
• Commercial pellets
• Fresh vegetables and fruits
• Water and food dishes
• Bathing bowl
• Spray bottle

1. Purchase the largest practical enclosure for your conure. The minimum cage size is 20 inches square at the base and 30 inches tall. The cage bars should be spaced apart a half- to three-fourths-inch.

2. Spread a layer of corn cob as a substrate on the bottom of the cage. Change this substrate at least once a week if not daily.

3. Keep the conures cage in your home in an area that is temperature controlled and has no drafts of direct sunlight.

4. Place several perches of varies types in the cage. Cement perches are great for nail filing while natural perches are good for the health of your bird's feet.

5. Supply plenty of bird toys in the cage. Wooden toys give the conure a chance to chew. Anything toys that are shiny, chewable or make noise will be thoroughly enjoyed by your conure.

6. Feed your conure fortified seed and commercial pellets every day. You should also have a separate food dish that you can place fresh vegetables or fruits in every day.

7. Provide a constant supply of clean fresh water in a water bowl. Clean the bowl out every day and always keep it filled with non-chlorinated water.

8. Give your bird a large bowl filled with lukewarm water to bathe in. Spray the conure with a misting bottle filled with lukewarm water during the day to entertain and clean your bird.

9. Interact with your bird for at least an hour daily. You conure craves your attention and needs it to be happy. Simply allowing the conure to climb on you while you watch television is fun for the bird.

Tips & Warnings

• Rotate the toys around the cage every few weeks to make them seem like new again and help your bird maintain interest.
• Take your dusky conure to a veterinarian annually for checkups to ensure good health. You should also make a special trip whenever your bird exhibits changes in behavior or eating habits.
• Do not allow your bird to consume avocado, alcohol, caffeine or chocolate as these are all poisonous to your bird.
• Do not spray or bathe your bird late in the day to prevent it from getting chills at night.