The African grey parrot is one of the most recognizable species to bird novices as well as bird enthusiasts. This parrot is one of the oldest psitticine species kept by humans, with records of the bird dating back to biblical times.
If you've ever wished for an ultra-smart pet that can talk to you, consider an African grey parrot. Between those big, bright eyes and quirky, intelligent personalities, African grey parrots are a popular pet choice among parrot lovers.
The African grey parrot’s ability to talk and mimic sounds makes this medium-sized parrot a captivating companion. African grey owners often report that their greys oftentimes talk in context and seem very attuned to their people’s emotions. Not only do bird keepers love this intelligent bird, it’s one of the most talented talking/ mimicking birds on the planet, giving it quite a reputation among bird enthusiasts.
If you are looking for a feathered friend that will be devoted to you and demand your love and attention an African Grey may be the right pet for you. Still, it is important to remember that these birds can live up to 80 years of age, meaning that they often outlive their owners and need to be rehomed.
The African Grey parrot is believed to be one of the smartest birds in the world and is capable of learning over 1000 words and speaking sentences in the correct context. These beautiful and intelligent birds tend to form a very strong bond with one individual and are often remarkably in tune with their handler's emotions.
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This parrot is one of the oldest psitticine species kept by humans, with records of the bird dating back to biblical times.
There are two distinct subspecies of the African grey parrot: the Congo African grey (Psittacus erithacus erithacus), also called the red-tailed grey and the CAG, and the Timneh African grey (Psittacus erithacus timneh), or TAG.
The TAG is smaller than the more popular Congo African grey (CAG). The CAG is more popular of the two subspecies, being larger and having a scarlet tail and black beak. The TAG is smaller with a much darker gray body, nearly black, with a horn-colored beak, and its tail ranges in color from maroon to dark gray or black.
Though the larger of the African grey subspecies is referred to as the Congo African grey, this bird actually has a much wider natural range in Africa, including the southeastern Ivory Coast, Kenya, and Tanzania. The Timneh African grey is found in a smaller region along the western edge of the Ivory Coast and through southern Guinea. African grey parrots generally inhabit savannas, coastal mangroves, woodland and edges of forest clearings in their West and Central Africa range.
Bird enthusiasts consider African grey parrots medium in size. They grow to about one pound in weight and one foot in length.
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In the wilds of Africa, the vegetarian parrots climb up tree trunks and along branches (instead of flying) to find red Cola tragacantha tree berries, other fruits, seeds, and nuts.
Understanding African Grey Parrot Behavior
African greys are social parrots that need a lot of hands-on time, however, they aren’t “cuddlebugs.” They will tolerate some head scratching and a little bit of petting, but they do not appreciate intense physical contact, though some individuals don’t mind a little snuggling. Every bird has individual tastes and preferences.
They are complex parrots, highly sensitive, and more than a little demanding. They are also charming and brilliant, but this match of sensitivity and brains can lead to behavioral issues. They are creatures of habit, and even a small change in routine can make a sensitive grey unhappy. They are prone to plucking and chewing their feathers, among other bad habits. Anecdotally, the TAG has a hardier attitude and may be better for households with a lot of people coming and going.
Much of the grey’s appeal comes from its talking ability. It is among the best talkers in the parrot family, able to repeat words and phrases after hearing them just once or twice. Not only will a grey develop an outstanding vocabulary, research has shown that this species can come to understand what it’s saying.
The most famous CAG, Alex, and his colleague, Dr. Irene Pepperberg, may be the reason for the popularity of this species, and certainly for its high profile. Alex and Dr. Pepperberg worked together for 30 years at Brandeis University until his unfortunate death in 2007, due to a catastrophic event associated to arteriosclerosis (“hardening of the arteries”).
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In their three decades of research, Dr. Pepperberg taught Alex to recognize and identify objects, colors, and shapes. Alex could also understand the concepts of same and different, category, and could even count objects. Though Alex was on his way to much more complex thought processes, including how to read, his fellow African greys Griffin and Arthur (AKA “Wart”) are continuing to work with Dr.
But just because greys are smart and may choose to talk rather than scream, it’s a mistake to believe that they aren’t noisy. They aren’t as loud or persistent as some of the South American species, but they will learn household sounds and use them tirelessly to the dismay of guardians.
Monika Sangar, co-founder of the Prego Dalliance Sanctuary in California, considers African grey parrots to be one of the most intelligent birds, thanks to their keen observation skills. "African greys are 50 shades of grey," Sanger explained.
An African Grey Parrot
Housing Your African Grey Parrot
For African greys, our sanctuary recommends 36" wide x 28" depth with ¾" or ½" bar spacing," Sanger shared.
The cage should at least be large enough for the wings to be fully extended without touching the sides of the cage. The larger the cage, the better it is for avian companions. All birds require “play time” outside of their cage where they can interact with their perceived flock (you!).
Cages should have vertical bars preferably made from stainless steel. Some home made cages are made of hardware cloth which should be avoided due to the possibility of zinc and lead exposure. A grated bottom will prevent the parrot from contacting its feces and old food. An excellent substrate to use under the grate is newspaper or paper towel. Both are inexpensive and easily cleaned while allowing you to visually access the parrots feces.
Perches should be made of various materials and available in a variety of sizes appropriate for your parrot. Perches that are too large will prevent proper foot positioning that will interfere with the parrots ability to “lock” their toes for secure perching. Perches that are too small however, place stress on the feet and can result in pressure sores. Harwood and rope perches are wonderful additions to any cage. Soft wood and cement perches should be avoided as soft woods can have sap or resin leftover and cement perches frequently leave pressure sores and abrasions on feet. If cement or sandpaper perches are used, always have other perches for the parrot to switch to.
Toys are a must for parrots. If your parrot does not play with the toys you have provided you will have to reassess and replace the toys. Some birds prefer wood, others plastic, some only shredable toys. Be patient and take care to note what toy your parrot responds to. Play is an important part of a companion parrots life for stimulation. Rotation of your toy stock is recommended every month or so. Take care to remove broken pieces from the cage.
It may be beneficial to leave a radio, TV, or video on for your parrot to listen to. This stimulation will help prevent boredom and any sense of flock abandonment your bird may feel while you are away.
It is advisable for all parrots to have their cages covered at night. This helps the bird feel secure as well as keeps the cage dark for maximum sleep.
Place the cage in a spot away from drafts where at least one side of the cage is against a wall.
African greys thrive on routine.
Nutritional Needs of African Grey Parrots
The parrot diet: the importance of vegetables
Ideally, all companion parrots should be maintained on a formulated pelleted diet to maintain good health. In the pet stores however, seed is the staple for most parrot diets. Conversion from an all or mostly seed diet to a pelleted diet can be difficult. Patience and determination with a little bit of stubbornness will go a long way during the conversion process. Your parrot should never lose more than 10% of its body weight during conversion.
Supplementation with dark leafy greens and other vegetables is a welcome addition to any diet for most parrots. Many parrots view fresh produce as a stimulating play thing as well. Fruits should be limited due to the high sugar content which can cause obesity, runny stool, and mouth infections.
Treats such as honey sticks should be avoided but healthy treats such as Lafeber Nutriberries and AviCakes are wonderful for bonding and training. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not be put into the water. The parrot should have fresh, clean water available at all times. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be used under the supervision of a veterinarian as these can lead to toxicity (over supplementation) or deficiency.
Offering a balanced, pelleted diet, such as Nutri-Berries, for the main diet of an African grey helps prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Nutri-Berries by Lafeber Company are perfect for foraging. This complete food blends a balance of grains, seeds, and other nutrients in the shape of a berry. Because the grains and seeds are mostly whole and formed into a berry shape, it encourages African greys to hold, nibble, and even play with the Nutri-Berries.
Table scraps can be fed to your parrot during meals. Parrots enjoy eating socially and the sharing of food with their flock. Never feed your bird chocolate, avocado, raisins/grapes (especially if your bird feather picks), or caffeine. Feeding an inappropriate diet can lead to an over weight parrot.
African grey parrots are more prone to deficiency in vitamin-A/beta-carotene, and therefore benefit from eating vegetables high in beta-carotene, such as cooked sweet potato and fresh kale. Vitamin-D deficiency is another concern, especially for greys on a poor diet.
Here are some food options to consider for your African Grey Parrot:
- Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Parrot Food: This blend offers your pet probiotics and prebiotics to support digestive health, Omega 3s for brain and heart health, and antioxidants for immune system wellness.
- Kaytee Exact Rainbow Parrot and Conure Food: Love pelleted food? Each colorful fortified premium food nugget contains the exact nutrition your bird needs for excellent health.
- Kaytee Fiesta Big Bites Parrot and Conure Food: Formulated for birds with big hooked bills, this mix allows your bird to explore various shapes and textures during mealtime while getting the best nutrition via Omega 3s, antioxidants, probiotics, and prebiotics.
Enrichment and Exercise for African Grey Parrots
African greys need plenty of toys that challenge their intelligence, such as foraging and puzzle toys.
African Grey parrots require an hour or more each day of enrichment playtime with owners involving games, puzzles and lessons - but that's not all.
As well as enrichment your Grey will also require 2-3 hours of exercise and out-of-cage time every day to help build muscle strength and prevent obesity.
Allow your bird to approach you on her own terms, respect her space, and let her initiate contact when you're first getting to know one another.
"The more time they spend with you, the stronger your bond will become." Sangar reminds us. "Allow them time outside of their habitat to explore and socialize with you.
Reward your African grey with their favorite treats and praise when they display good behavior or show interest in bonding activities.
An African Grey Parrot playing with toys
Maintaining Your African Grey Parrot's Health
To keep your African Grey Parrot healthy and happy they should be examined by a qualified avian veterinarian once or twice a year. A vet that has specialized training in the care of exotics and avians can help provide your African Grey parrot with the care they need and deserve, as well as provide you with the guidance and advice you need to become the best Grey owner you can be.
Routine preventive care including fecal exams, blood tests and vaccinations play a vital role in giving your African Grey their best shot at a long, happy and healthy life. Wing and nail trimming will also be required from time to time to keep your parrot looking and feeling great.
Many researchers believe that UVB (ultra violet radiation B) is required for indoor birds to correctly synthesize vitamin D3 and to promote proper preening behavior. These lights are ideal especially for egg laying hens (female birds) and African Grey Parrots in general are prone to hypocalcaemia (calcium deficiency) and would benefit from an UVB light. The light must remain on for at least 6 hours a day. The typical light period for these parrots is 10 hours of light to 14 hours of darkness. The darkness however may be increased in hens that are overly reproductive.
It is important for your parrot’s mental health and physical well being to bathe daily. This preening behavior will keep their plumage in good condition allowing for better insulation and healthy skin. Bathing can be done in a shallow dish, a sink, shower, or with a gentle mister always using warm water. Most birds love to bath on their own while others prefer to be sprayed gently. If your bird does not enjoy bathing in one style, try another. Remember, your bird should be completely dry before they are put to bed.
Here are some common health problems that can affect African Grey Parrots:
- Feather Picking
- Hypocalcaemia
- Hepatic Lipidosis
- Upper Respiratory Disease
- PBFD - Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Virus
- PDD - Proventricular Dilatation Disease
Birds hide illness and so at that point, it is a very bad situation. Keep an eye on your birds droppings (Google will help), look out for nasal secretions, the vent (butt-hole hahaha) should be free from debris. Breathing should be inaudible. Look out for tail bobbing when a bird is standing still/perched, as this is a sign of difficulty breathing in many cases. Any cracking, squeaking or wheezing is BAD when the bird breathes. Eyes should not be red, nor should they produce discharge or swelling. Take your bird to the vet if you notice any of these things or if your bird's behavior or eating/drinking suddenly changes.
Potential Dangers for African Grey Parrots
Avoid toxins like avocado, tomato, rhubarb, excess salt or sugar, alcohol, artificial sweetener, chocolate, caffeine etc. Birds are lactose-intolerant. They also should not consume a lot of fatty foods (including nuts). If you have an insect problem, ant killers and insecticides can also kill your bird. A bird may even be poisoned by eating a bug that has consumed chemicals. Fruit pits and apple-seeds are dangerous for birds due to cyanide content, but when the pit/seeds are not present, they are fine. Avoid fortified cereals etc (not just because of the sugar, but due to added vitamins). Also, natural applesauce (unsweetened) still contains citric acid, so stuff like that should be given in moderation.
Do not allow the bird to chew on metal objects---zinc, copper and lead are very bad.
Considerations Before Getting an African Grey Parrot
Most bird keepers believe that only an experienced bird enthusiast should keep a grey.
