Color change in feathers

Question
I have a green conure that was given to me by a friend.  We do not know Buddies background.  The bird flew on her deck one evening & then into her house.  Recently I have noticed that on the back of Buddies head there seems to be a very small patch of orange, and beneath the right eye is a small patch of red.  What could be the cause of this>

Answer
There are several species of conures that change coloring as they get older. If your bird is young (under 1 to 2 years)- it is not unusual for them to develop their mature, adult coloring during this time. Sun conures get very defined red patches around their eyes, and theire colors get more intense and you see more orange and yellow develop. Mitred and Cherry-head conures, for example, are all green, bu develop red coloring on their heads as they mature.

So, I wouldn't be too concerned. If the feathers develop black or brown coloring or lines on them- then you should get your bird to an avian vet asap.

I hope this helps.

-Maggie