Golden conure facts: a forest parrot of Brazil

The golden conure (Guaruba guarouba) is native to the Brazilian Amazon. Here is an overview of its appearance, range, and flock behavior, along with some of the pressures on its habitat.

What is a golden conure?

The golden conure, also called the golden parakeet, belongs to the parrot family Psittacidae. Adults are mostly bright yellow, with green flight feathers and a pale eye ring. The species is native to Brazil, south of the Amazon River, and is associated with lowland forests.

Where does it live?

Golden conures live in the Brazilian Amazon, especially in Pará and areas toward Maranhão. They use forest habitats and eat fruits, nuts, flowers, and buds. Sources differ on the exact range and population size, and surveys may change those estimates. Older counts should not be treated as current.

Flock life and behavior

Golden conures live in social groups throughout the year. The World Parrot Trust describes flocks of about 3 to 30 birds and says they may move between areas after breeding. Researchers supported by the Trust have studied their flock behavior, food preferences, and nesting trees. This work helps inform conservation planning.

Why its habitat matters

Forest loss and fragmentation reduce golden conure habitat, and trapping has also affected the species. Protecting connected forest and preventing illegal capture can benefit golden conures and other wildlife. Conservation categories and estimates vary by authority, so check current sources for the latest assessment.

Sources and further reading

• Minnesota Zoo: Golden Conure
• World Parrot Trust: Golden Conure
• World Parrot Trust: Golden Conure Conservation

Learn how these natural history facts connect to conservation, or read our conservation overview.