The Patagonian Conure (Cyanoliseus patagonus)

The Giant of the Conure World

The Patagonian Conure, also known as the Burrowing Parrot, is the outlier of the conure family. Native to the rocky cliffs and grasslands of Argentina and Chile, they are the largest of all conures.

While most conures are tropical “tree-dwellers,” the Patagonian is a hardy, ground-foraging bird that lives in massive colonies. They are known for their “big parrot” presence, incredible intelligence, and their unique, earth-toned beauty.

Key Characteristics

• Massive Size: At 18 to 20 inches long, they are nearly the size of an African Grey or a small Macaw. They have a long, sweeping tail and a powerful, heavy build.

• The “Olive” Palette: Unlike the neon greens of other conures, the Patagonian has a sophisticated “military” look. They are primarily olive-brown and dark green, but they hide a vibrant yellow and red abdomen that “pops” against their darker feathers.

• The White Breast Band: Most Patagonians feature a distinct, crescent-shaped white band across their upper chest, giving them a regal, formal appearance.

• Fascinating Nesting: In the wild, they are “Burrowing Parrots.”⁴ They use their strong beaks to tunnel deep into sandstone or limestone cliffs to create nesting burrows, sometimes creating “apartment complexes” for thousands of birds.

Quick Facts

Care & Personality

The Patagonian is a “lifestyle” bird. They aren’t just pets; they are significant household members who require a lot of space and interaction.

• High Intelligence: Many owners consider them to be the smartest of the conures. They are excellent at problem-solving, can be potty trained quite easily, and are very capable of learning to speak clearly.

• The “Loud” Factor: Warning: Their voice is legendary. Because they live in massive, windy cliff colonies, they have evolved a call that can cut through a gale. Their scream is deep and resonant—not recommended for apartments or close-proximity neighbors.

• Gentle Giants: Despite their size and powerful beaks, they are known for being surprisingly gentle and “laid back.”⁷ They aren’t as “nippy” as the smaller Green-cheeks and tend to be very steady in temperament.

• Digging Instincts: Because they are burrowers, they love to be on the floor. They will “dig” into blankets, boxes, and carpets. They need plenty of foot toys and floor-based foraging opportunities.

Dietary Needs

Unlike tropical conures, Patagonians spend a lot of time on the ground eating seeds, grains, and roots.

• Diverse Veggies: They love “root” vegetables like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes.

• Foraging: They thrive when their food is hidden in “digging boxes” (bins filled with safe wood chips, paper, and treats) to mimic their natural behavior.

Is a Patagonian Conure Right for You?

This is the bird for someone who wants the personality and size of a Macaw but prefers the quirky, social nature of a Conure. They are incredibly loyal and will often become “velcro” birds. If you have the space for a massive cage and the environment to handle their loud calls, the Patagonian is one of the most unique companions in the avian world.