The African Grey is a medium to large parrot originating in West and Central Africa. There are two subspecies: the Congo African Grey and the Timneh African Grey. The Congo African Grey is a larger parrot measuring approximately 12 inches long and is covered in light grey feathers; it has a black beak and a vivif red tail. The Timneh African Grey is a smaller bird with dark charcoal gray feathers, a deep maroon tail, and horn colored beak.
The Congo African Grey is generally more expensive than the smaller Timneh. Both species are able talkers and good companions.
Greys make devoted pets, but are often cautious, nervous, and change. These traits make the African Grey a poor choice for a family with young, active children. Greys are better suited for homes with older children and adults. A stressed bird is prone to behavior problems like biting, screaming, or feather plucking.
Speech
African Greys are known for their remarkable ability to mimic speech. Most experts consider them to be the best talkers. They typically develop an extensive vocabulary andr imitatie electronic devices and other noises that can be both amusing and quite irritating. These include dripping water, microwave, video games, alarm clocks, sirens, barking dogs, and ringing telephones.
While Greys are noted for their astonishing abilities to mimic speech, never acquire a bird for this reason alone. Just as human beings vary in their abilities, birds do as well. Some African Greys turn out to be poor talkers.
Intelligence
The African Grey requires an owner who is committed to satisfy the needs of a highly intelligent animal. African Greys have demonstrated a high level of intelligence, performing cognitive tasks on a level similar to chimps, dolphins, and human toddlers.
Many people will recognize Alex, the African Grey that was a subject of ongoing research conducted by Dr. Irene Pepperberg. Alex acquired an extensive vocabulary and showed an ability to associate words with meanings. Alex for example was known to ask for “long yellow” when he wanted corn.
Care
An African Grey should be provided a diet consisting of pellets, grains, seeds, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables along with clean water daily.These birds require a spacious cage in which to move around and play. A variety of toys must be offered and rotated frequently to prevent boredom. Greys love to chew rope and other soft toys and enjoy shredding paper and cardboard. Give your bird toys that it can manipulate. Toys go a long way to entertain this highly intelligent parrot, but are no substitute for human interaction. These birds are social creatures with complex emotional needs. Owners must devote at least one hour a day interacting with their Grey.
Owning an African Grey can be a truly rewarding experience. These birds are among the most beautiful, intelligent, and vocal parrots available.
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