The Sun Parakeet,[2][3]
previously and in aviculture called Sun Conure,[4]
(Aratinga solstitialis) is a member of the parrot
family (Psittacidae). It is native to the north-eastern
coastal forests of South America. The average weight for a Sun Conure is
approximately 110g. Their length is approximately 305mm from
head to tail[5].
They are monomorphic and reach sexual maturity around two
years of age. It is noted for its loud squawking compared to
its relatively small size. The bird is capable of mimicking
humans but not as well as some larger parrots.
They are especially popular as pets because of their
bright coloration. Due to their inquisitive temperament,
they demand a great deal of attention from their owners, and
can sometimes be loud. Like many parrots, they are
high-grade chewers and require toys and treats to chew on.
They can live for 25 to 30 years.[6]
References
^
BirdLife International (2004).
Aratinga solstitialis. 2006
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 11 May 2006.
^
World Institute for Conservation & Environment, WICE:
Nature World Wide: Nature in Brazil
^
Forshaw, Joseph M., Cooper, William T. [1973, 1978]
(1981). Parrots of the World, corrected
second edition, David & Charles, Newton Abbot,
London.
ISBN 0-7153-7698-5.