The Beautiful African Grey Parrot

The African Grey parrot is probably one of the most beautiful and easiest parrots to keep in captivity. They are originally from Central Africa, they are known for the exceptional talking ability and the high intelligence. African Greys generally communicate well with their owners and are capable of developing a large vocabulary.

These birds are medium-sized normally growing to about 10 to 14 inches. African Grey parrots come in two different types. There is a Congo African Grey parrot, which is light Grey and has a red tail. The Timneh African Grey is a darker charcoal Grey with a maroon tail. Generally the males are larger than the females. Male birds and normally 12 to 14 inches in size. Both sexes actually look the same, however, the female Congo African Grey parrot usually has a more slender neck and narrower head.

These parrots require an owner, who will make a long-term commitment to them. It’s not unusual for African Greys to live up to 60 years. Because of their high intelligence, African Greys require an owner that is experienced and who can understand their needs. They need to be stimulated and be in an interactive environment or they will become bored. African Greys definitely need their intellectual needs looked after, otherwise there boredom may turn into behavioral problems.

Since they are so sensitive this can lead to behavioral problems. It seems that even small changes to their daily routine and surroundings can lead to an African Grey parrot becoming cranky and frustrated. In the most part these birds are typically well behaved and great pets, however there can be challenges. Undisciplined African Greys can get into some trouble. They can sometimes bite and chew things. They can quickly pick up behaviors therefore if you unintentionally show them bad habits, it will be just as easy to reinforce good ones.

Because they are very social birds, African Grey parrot’s make fantastic pets. They will typically flock together in the wild. An African Grey parrot living in a home environment will usually adopt the family into their flock. There has been reports of them actually cuddling family members. Even though they don’t always like physical contact they seem to enjoy head scratching and petting. The birds strange signs of affection will not put off an experienced African Grey owner.

African Greys use regurgitation as a deep sign of affection, and will even try to kiss their owners. It is not recommended that you allow the bird to kiss you, because humans mouths contain bacteria that is harmful to the birds. It is also very important the owners really understand the birds need for companionship.

The African Grey parrot has a great personality and human like qualities too. Those of us who are fortunate enough to own one will be able to see an intelligence that not many other animals can equal.