Sun Conure vs Green Cheek Conure: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re deciding between a Sun Conure and a Green Cheek Conure, you’re already looking at two of the most popular pet parrots in the United States — and for good reason. Both are playful, affectionate, and full of personality. But they’re also quite different in price, noise level, size, and temperament.
At Mo’s Birds, we breed and hand-raise both species. Here’s everything you need to know to pick the right one for your home.
Quick Comparison: Sun Conure vs Green Cheek Conure
| Feature | Sun Conure | Green Cheek Conure |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 12 inches, 100–120g | 10 inches, 60–80g |
| Noise Level | Very loud (screamer) | Quiet to moderate |
| Talking Ability | Limited (a few words) | Limited (a few words) |
| Lifespan | 15–25 years | 10–15 years |
| Personality | Bold, energetic, cuddly | Playful, mischievous, sweet |
| Price Range | $400–$600 | $275–$450 |
| Best For | Families, single owners | Apartments, first-time owners |
Sun Conure: The Showstopper
The Sun Conure (Aratinga solstitialis) is impossible to ignore. Their vibrant orange, yellow, and green plumage is among the most striking of any parrot species, and their personalities match — bold, outgoing, and deeply bonded to their owners.
Sun Conure Personality
Sun Conures are highly social birds that thrive on attention. They love being on their owner’s shoulder, cuddling, and being the center of everything. They’re playful and energetic, and they form incredibly strong bonds. If you want a bird that will follow you around the house like a feathered dog, a Sun Conure might be your match.
Sun Conure Noise Level
Here’s the catch: Sun Conures are loud. This is the single most important thing to know before buying one. Their contact call is a high-pitched screech that can be heard across an entire house — or apartment building. They’re not well suited for apartment living unless you have very understanding neighbors.
Who Should Get a Sun Conure?
- People in houses (not apartments)
- Families where someone is home often
- Owners who want a highly visual, showy bird
- Bird lovers who don’t mind (or enjoy) a vocal pet
Green Cheek Conure: The Apartment-Friendly Conure
The Green Cheek Conure (Pyrrhura molinae) is everything you love about a conure — playful, cuddly, full of personality — in a smaller, quieter package. They’ve become one of the most popular pet parrots in the US, especially among apartment dwellers and first-time bird owners.
Green Cheek Personality
Green Cheeks are often described as “little clowns.” They’re mischievous, funny, and love to play. They’re also surprisingly cuddly for a small bird — many Green Cheeks love to snuggle under their owner’s chin or nap in a shirt pocket. They can be a bit nippy when young but mellow out quickly with consistent handling.
Green Cheek Noise Level
Green Cheeks are much quieter than Sun Conures. They chirp and chatter, but they don’t have the ear-piercing screech. This makes them a great choice for apartments, condos, and households with noise-sensitive family members or babies.
Green Cheek Color Mutations
One of the coolest things about Green Cheeks is the wide variety of color mutations available. At Mo’s Birds we breed:
- Normal Green Cheek — classic green, maroon tail, grey chest
- Pineapple — yellow-orange chest, red and yellow feathers, red eyes
- Turquoise — bright turquoise-blue body, stunning coloration
- Yellow-sided — bright yellow flanks, vivid colors
- Cinnamon — warm tan and lime green feathers
Who Should Get a Green Cheek Conure?
- Apartment or condo dwellers
- First-time bird owners
- Families with children
- People who want color variety (many mutations available)
- Anyone who wants a big personality in a small bird
The Key Differences Side by Side
Noise: Green Cheek Wins for Quiet Homes
If noise is a concern, the Green Cheek is the clear winner. Sun Conures can reach 120 decibels — as loud as a rock concert — during contact calls. Green Cheeks top out around 70–80 decibels, closer to a normal conversation.
Price: Green Cheek is More Affordable
Green Cheek Conures are generally less expensive. Normal mutations start around $275 at Mo’s Birds. Rarer mutations like Turquoise or Pineapple run $350–$450. Sun Conures typically start at $400–$600 for hand-raised babies.
Lifespan: Sun Conures Live Longer
Sun Conures live 15–25 years with proper care. Green Cheeks average 10–15 years. Both are a long commitment — choose the one whose needs fit your lifestyle long-term.
Cuddliness: Both Are Very Affectionate
Both species are known for being cuddly and people-oriented. Hand-raised birds from a reputable breeder bond quickly and love physical contact. Sun Conures tend to be more intense in their affection; Green Cheeks are playful and sweet.
Which One Should You Get?
Get a Sun Conure if: You live in a house, don’t mind noise, want a dramatic and visually stunning bird, and have time to give it lots of attention.
Get a Green Cheek Conure if: You live in an apartment, want a quieter bird, are a first-time owner, or love the idea of choosing from beautiful color mutations at a lower price point.
Either way, you can’t really go wrong. Both are incredible companion birds when hand-raised properly.
Buy a Hand-Raised Conure from Mo’s Birds
At Mo’s Birds, all of our Sun Conures and Green Cheek Conures are hand-raised from hatching, fully weaned, and socialized before going to their new homes. We breed multiple color mutations and have babies available year-round.
📍 Located in Southern California | 🚚 Nationwide shipping available
Browse our available conures or contact Mo directly to ask about upcoming babies and reserve yours today.