2009-02-05 • by Administrator

What are African Grey Parrots?

Often nicknamed as "A combination of brain and beauty", the African Grey Parrot is one of the most intelligent of all birds, yet elegant. Owing to its name, all its subspecies have grey wings and a pale grey rump. They are medium sized parrots and belong to the genus Psittacus. Originally found in the rainforests of West and Central Africa, these parrots are now hand-reared all over the world by the breeders for pet trade. Two main subspecies exist, namely Congo African Grey Parrot and Timneh African Grey Parrot, the former being more dominant. Both of them have very sharp claws and beaks.

What is So Different about the African Grey Parrot?

African Grey Parrots are believed to be common pets for 4000 years. Egyptians were believed to be first to pet them, which is quite evident from their hieroglyphics and the Romans were believed to keep them in ornate cages. What makes this parrot so unique is its ability to talk, which by far exceeds every other parrot. Not only can this parrot talk, but also is very good at imitating things like phones, chain saws, microwave ovens, etc. They can also imitate other birds very effectively. African Grey Parrots being one of the most intelligent of all birds are very careful and observant as well. They observe everything that is happening around them in the house and use their cognitive abilities to react and respond, to get their owners attention! They can easily understand common household happenings such as the ringing of the phone, which is followed by a person running to pick it up. After a series of such events, they react to every happening of the event in the future. Being extremely social is one of the most important traits of this bird. Due to this, they bond with humans easily and end up being treated as one of their family members as well!

African Grey Parrots for Dummies - Some Tips

Due to their innate wild nature still prevailing, they are known to be fearful and nervous in nature. They can get very aggressive even in case of a slight pat on the forehead by some unknown person. This is quite applicable even with unknown objects.

Additionally, just like other parrots, they are prone to several behavioral problems as well. At times, when they get lonely, they start feather plucking or screaming. They can also portray their anger by biting someone for no apparent reason. All these can be easily overcome by training the bird properly, right from its childhood along with a proper diet and activities.

Hence African Grey Parrots are believed to be a high-maintenance pet as they require a lot of time out of their cages and a good deal of personal attention. In case the person cannot satisfy the latter requirement, it is advisable that he/she gets an additional African Grey Parrot for company.

Sometimes their wings are clipped, to prevent them from flying to high places, especially inside the house. This is so that the fan wings do not hurt it and so on.

Due to their sharp beaks and claws, pet bird owners are advised to keep these parrots away from the reach of the naughty kids, as they can get hurt easily in case the parrot turns aggressive.