extent, nectar and leaves. They are the quietest of the conures and can learn tricks and have a limited vocabulary, with extensive training. Breeding The green-cheeked parakeet nests in hollow trees. 4-6 eggs are laid, which are incubated for 22 to 25 days. Aviculture Green-cheeked parakeets are common in aviculture and are popular companion parrots. They are playful, affectionate and intelligent, known as having a "big personality in a small body". They can learn to talk, albeit with a limited vocabulary and a gravelly voice. They like to be held (although some like it more than others) and can learn tricks such as lying on their backs, "kissing," shaking, hanging upside down, minor tool use, and even can be potty trained. Green-cheeked parrots are not very loud at most times, so even an apartment dweller can enjoy their companionship. They can be prone to biting, particularly when young, but an owner can cure this behavior with patience and time. When cared for properly, captive green-cheeked parakeets can live 25-30 years. However, their average lifespan in captivity is closer to 10 years, due to frequent neglect and/or an incorrect diet. Color variations In addition to the natural color forms, color varieties have been selectively bred in aviculture: Cinnamon are lime green and have a lighter, paler coloring. The head is tan and the tail feathers are a lighter maroon compared to normal green-cheeked parakeets. Yellow-sided have bright-colored breasts that graduate from red to yellow and dark gray heads. Rarely, they also possess a bright yellow feather on each side of the upper wing. This is a rare recessive character of which only one hatchling in approximately 10 clutches can be found to have. This feature often increases their value. Pineapple are a combination of the cinnamon and yellow-sided variations. They have a breast of bright colors, a tan head and lime green feathers on the back like a cinnamon green-cheeked parrot. The tail feathers are the same as a yellow-sided, providing a halo effect. Turquoise have a body with some blue-green and green feathers. The end of the wing feathers have a highly iridescent quality if left unclipped. The breast feathers are grayish and the tail feathers are gray. Green/red/blue apple varieties are less common, but have been seen. References Works cited Per CITES Reference and IATA LAR 43rd Edition, these birds are classified to fall under CITES Protected species under