The golden parakeet or golden conure, or the Queen of Bavaria conure is a medium-sized golden-yellow Neotropical parrot native to the Amazon Basin of interior northern Brazil. It is the only species placed in the genus Guaruba.
Region
Amazon Basin (Northern Brazil)
Typical Environment
Occurs in the lowland rainforests south of the Amazon River, primarily in Pará and adjacent parts of Maranhão and Tocantins. It favors humid terra firme and secondary forests, often near forest edges, clearings, and riparian corridors. Birds range widely to track seasonal fruiting trees and may use mosaic landscapes with selectively logged areas if large nest trees remain. Roosts communally and nests in cavities of tall trees within mature forest stands.
Altitude Range
0–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the golden conure or Queen of Bavaria conure, this species is notable for cooperative breeding: non‑breeding helpers assist a single breeding pair in feeding and guarding chicks. Its brilliant yellow body with green flight feathers makes it unmistakable. It is protected under CITES Appendix I due to pressures from habitat loss and illegal trade.
Guaruba guarouba - MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Forms noisy flocks, often 10–30 birds, that travel between feeding sites and communal roosts. Breeds colonially in tall-tree cavities and exhibits cooperative breeding, with several helpers assisting the dominant pair. Pairs are monogamous and maintain close bonds throughout the year.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, ringing squawks and harsh screeches typical of conures, used to keep flock contact in flight. At roosts and nest sites, calls soften into chirps and chatters, with excited chorus during takeoff and feeding.
