The Pineapple Green-cheeked Conure

The Most Popular Mutation in the World

The Pineapple Conure is not a separate species, but a specific color mutation of the Green-cheeked Conure (Pyrrhura molinae). It is the result of crossing two other mutations: the Cinnamon and the Yellow-sided.

This combination creates a bird that looks like a tropical sunset, blending bright yellows, fiery oranges, and soft limes. They are widely considered the “visual masterpieces” of the small conure world.

Key Characteristics

• The “Glowing” Chest: Their most famous feature is a bright yellow and vibrant red/orange breast. Because they carry the “Yellow-sided” gene, the red often extends down to their underbelly.

• Tan or “Silvery” Head: Unlike the wild Green-cheek (which has a dark grey/black head), Pineapples have a pale, tan, or silvery-grey head. This is due to the “Cinnamon” gene, which lightens the dark pigments.

• Red Around the Eyes: They often have a “blush” of red or orange feathers around their eyes, giving them a very expressive and “sweet” appearance.

• Pale Feet and Beak: While wild Green-cheeks have dark charcoal beaks and feet, Pineapple Conures typically have horn-colored (ivory/pinkish) beaks and light-colored feet.

• Lime Green Back: Their back and wings are a soft, light lime green rather than the deep forest green of the wild type.

Quick Facts

Personality: “A Big Bird in a Tiny Body”

Pineapple Conures share the legendary personality of the Green-cheeked family, but many owners claim they are particularly “mellow” and “sweet”:

• The Cuddle Factor: They are world-class snugglers. A Pineapple Conure will often try to burrow into your hand, sleeve, or hair to take a nap.

• The “Nippy” Phase: Like all Green-cheeks, they can be a bit “beaky.” They use their mouths to explore, and young birds may nip to test boundaries. Consistent, gentle training is key.

• The “Clown” Behavior: They are famous for lying on their backs to play with toys, hanging upside down like a bat, and doing “head bobs” when they are excited or happy.

• Intelligence: They are highly trainable. Many Pineapple Conures can learn to “wave,” “turn around,” and even “fetch” small objects for treats.

Care & Nutrition

To keep their “Pineapple” colors vibrant, their diet is crucial:

• Natural Pigments: Feeding foods high in beta-carotene (like sweet potatoes, red peppers, and carrots) helps maintain the richness of the red and orange feathers.

• Mental Health: Because they are so social, they need at least 2–4 hours of out-of-cage time daily. They thrive on human interaction and can become lonely if left alone too long.

Is a Pineapple Conure Right for You?

If you want a bird that has the “wow factor” of a Sun Conure’s colors but the quiet, manageable volume of a Green-cheek, the Pineapple is your perfect match. They are ideal for apartment dwellers and people who want a deeply affectionate, interactive companion.