Adults of the nominate subspecies P. m. molinae are dull brown from forehead to nape and have green cheeks, ashy brown ear coverts, and a creamy white ring of bare skin around the eye.

[5][9] The populations of green-cheeked parakeet breeding in higher elevations move to lower ones in winter.

[5] The green-cheeked parakeet has a varied diet that, in the wild, consists of fruits, seeds, flowers and, to a lesser extent, nectar and leaves.

From a perch it "utters high-pitched, more melodious notes, such as a bisyllabic "rrekeet" or "keew"."

Flocks in flight "call frequently and simultaneously, producing a noisy, harsh and piercing chattering.

[13] 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.

[15][10] They can be prone to biting, particularly when young, but an owner can cure[citation needed] this behavior with patience and time.

However, their average lifespan in captivity is closer to 10 years, due to frequent neglect and/or an incorrect diet.