Hand Fed Black Capped Conure - Pyrrhura rupicola

Noise Level & Talking Ability

Black Capped Conures are known for their quieter natures in comparison to other species of conures. Almost any conure will be louder than a cockatiel for example. However, Black Capped conures make good apartment birds, but this does not mean they are completely silent. Talking ability is limited, but many black-capped conures will repeat sounds and a few words.

Physical Features 

Black-capped conures are mostly green. As the name suggests, they have a dark grey-brown cap that appears black in most lighting. The cheeks tend to be an olive green compared to the body. Like other conures, they have a white periophthalmic ring, and the iris is brown. The beak is very dark grey. The upper breast extending to the nape is dark brown feathers edged with near-white giving a scalloped necklace appearance. The primary coverts and underwing are bright red, which can be seen even when the wings are closed. Most individuals have a small amount of deep red on their belly. The flight feathers are green. The top side of the tail is green, the bottom side is a deep maroon, appearing black, and is about the same length as the body. The legs and feet are dark grey. 

Pet Profile

The Black Capped Conure is a playful bird and is very trainable with loads of personality. It has been said that black-capped conures are more timid to start than, say, a green-cheeked conure. Their owners should be comfortable with bird handling and ready to give them their required one on one handling and socialization, a nervous owner will not help the bird to become comfortable with them. Black Capped Conures bond strongly, but with proper socialization can make suitable family pets. 

Diet

Bird pellets such as Zupreem Natural Pellets should make up the majority of the diet. Their diet can be kept varied with fresh fruits and veggies along with whole wheat or veggie pasta plus cooked rice which has been cooled down to room temperate. Cooked sweet potato cooled to room temperature is also great for providing extra Vitamin A content!

Housing

A black-capped conure needs a cage large enough to provide space for daily exercise. The cage should be around 4sqft at least, and have a maximum wire spacing of 3/4" inches. A variety of toys and perches must be provided to ensure overall health and wellbeing. 

Breeding Information

Wild Status

Least Concern - Stable 
Last assessed July 2020 for the IUCN Red List