- Introduction
These are social, active, playful parrots that also frequently nest in trees and will often scavenge food when people are not around. One very interesting behavior is when a Conure nests with their head exposed. In this article, you will learn why Conure Commonly Nest in a Sitting Positions, Conure Nesting Behavior Naturally and in captivity, also how to Make A Safe and Comfort Conure Nesting Spot for Your birds.
2. When do I see “nesting with head exposed”?
When a conure is sleeping inside a nest but has its head sticking out, it will do this. You can find it in both the wild and in captivity, and its functions include ventilation, safety and comfort.
3. Nesting Behavior in the Wild vs. Captivity
| Aspect | Wild Conures | Captive Conures |
| Nesting Location | Tree hollows, cliff crevices | Nesting boxes, enclosed spaces |
| Material Used | Leaves, twigs, wood shavings | Paper, wood chips, coconut fiber |
| Safety Concerns | Predators, harsh weather | Overcrowding, improper cage setup |
| Social Behavior | Nest in groups for protection | Prefer a nesting box or private area |
Why is conures having its head exposed while still in the nest?
- Ventilation: Keeps them cool from overheating.
- Safety: It allows them to stay on guard for anything that can threaten them.
- Comfort: However, some birds like to sleep in the same position.
- Bonding: Pairs of Conures may nest together.
4. Health & Safety Considerations
Signs of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Nesting Behavior
| Behavior | Healthy Nesting | Unhealthy Nesting |
| Head Positioning | Relaxed, alert, comfortable | Frequent head shaking, discomfort |
| Feather Condition | Smooth, well-groomed | Plucked, signs of stress |
| Activity Level | Regular eating and movement | Lethargy, lack of interest |
| Breathing | Slow, steady | Labored or heavy breathing |
Secondly, exposure of the head can pose potential dangers of nesting.
- Exposure to drafts: Can lead to respiratory issues.
- Improper nest size: However, a small nest can be uncomfortable.
- Lack of nesting materials: May cause stress and insecurity.
5. Creating a Comfortable Nesting Setup for Pet Conures
Best Nesting Materials
- Safe options: Unhmm… Coconut fiber, untreated wood shavings, shredded paper.
- Avoid: Toxic woods, synthetic fabrics, and plastic materials.
Choosing the Right Nesting Box
- Size: It should be spacious enough for movement.
- Material: Ventilation holes on a wood or acrylic.
- Placement: In a place away from direct sunlight and drafts.
6. Comparison with Other Parrots
How does Conure nesting behavior compare with other parrots?
| Parrot Type | Nesting Style | Head Exposure Behavior |
| Conures | Enclosed nests, head exposed | Common |
| Lovebirds | Compact, enclosed nests | Rare |
| Cockatiels | Hollow tree nesting | Occasional |
| Parakeets | Open nests, head inside | Uncommon |
7. Nesting & Breeding Considerations
Hormonal Influence on Nesting Behavior
- During breeding season conures become more attached to its nesting areas.
- Increased territorial behavior
- Stronger bond with mate
- More frequent head-exposed nesting positions
Caring for Baby Conures
- Incubation period: 22-25 days
- Feeding needs: Have soft foods such as mashed fruits and baby bird formula
- Growth milestones: First feathers appear by 3 weeks
8. Diet Plan for Nesting Conures
| Stage | Recommended Diet |
| Before Breeding | High-protein diet: seeds, nuts, egg food |
| During Breeding | Calcium-rich foods: cuttlebone, leafy greens |
| After Egg-Laying | Soft foods: fruits, soaked pellets, warm mash |
9. Cost Breakdown for Nesting Setup
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Nesting Box | $20 – $50 |
| Bedding Material | $5 – $15 |
| Extra Food | $10 – $30 |
| Vet Checkups | $50 – $150 |
10. Conclusion
Conures, for the most part, normally nest with the head exposed and this is a natural and common behavior. Learning why they do this will also help pet owners create a comfortable and safe setting for the pets. However, providing a Conure with the right nesting materials, monitoring its health, and providing it a proper diet will keep it happy and healthy!