Black-Capped Green Cheek Conure

Black-Capped Conure (Pyrrhura rupicola)

The Black-Capped Conure is a small, charming parrot species closely related to the Green-Cheek Conure but distinguishable by its darker head, scalloped feather pattern, and slightly more reserved personality. It’s native to the eastern slopes of the Andes in Peru and Bolivia and is a favorite among bird enthusiasts for its unique look and sweet nature.

Appearance:

• Size: Around 10 inches (25 cm) long, similar to the Green-Cheek Conure.

• Coloration:

  • Head: Covered in dark brown to black feathers, forming the “black cap” that gives the bird its name.

  • Neck and Chest: Feathers are gray edged in black, creating a distinct scalloped or scale-like appearance.

  • Body: Mostly green, with brighter green on the wings.

  • Belly: Ranges from greenish to a light red or maroon.

  • Tail Feathers: Typically deep maroon or reddish-brown.

  • Cheeks: Green, like the Green-Cheek Conure.

  • Beak and Feet: Black or dark gray.

  • Eye-rings: White, prominent against the dark face.

Personality:

• Gentle and sweet, often seen as a bit more laid-back than standard Green-Cheeks.

• Playful and curious, enjoying toys and interaction.

• Highly social—forms strong bonds with their owners.

• Smart and trainable, though not known for strong talking ability.

• Relatively quiet compared to other conure species, though still vocal when excited.

Care Needs:

• Lifespan: 20–30 years with good care.

• Requires a nutritious diet of pellets, fruits, veggies, and occasional seeds.

• Needs plenty of mental stimulation, time outside the cage, and social interaction daily.

• Benefits from a variety of toys, perches, and activities to prevent boredom.

Black-Capped vs. Green-Cheek Conure: