African Grey Parrot There are two varieties of this medium sized parrot. Some of the more common varieties are: Congo African Grey - Solid black beak, grey feathering and a bright red tail, measuring 12 to 14 inches and weighting approx. 1 lb. Timneh African Grey - Dark black beak has a pink cast, darker grey feathering and a maroon tail, measuring 10 inches and weighing 10 ounces

Traits: If properly cared for, the African Grey can live up to fifty years. The African Grey Parrot has been known for its intelligence and ability to communicate. Although, most African Greys learn to speak very quickly it can take up to two years for some of them. Those who are talented talkers will learn new words and phrases throughout their lives and provide a constant source of amusement. African Greys tend not to be cuddly birds and most of them tend to spook easily. Even a tame and friendly Grey will shy away from your hand if approached too quickly. Tame African Grey's will endure being held and even petting but not all necessarily enjoy it. African Greys tend to bond with one person or territory and need to have a great deal of socialization and stimulation to stay a happy, healthy member of your family.

Feeding: An African Grey should eat a staple diet of fresh pellet formula or a fortified parrot seed diet. Pelleted diets are recommended because each pellet contains balanced nutrition. Besides a variety of pellet or a seed mix diet, offer chopped dark green and yellow vegetables and a variety of fresh fruits in addition to a protein source like mature legumes, hard cooked chopped egg, and grated cheese. Avoid the following foods: Iceberg lettuce, and cabbage, (these can cause severe diarrhea); caffeine (contained in chocolate and soda); avocado and parsley, (these can be poisonous). Raisins and bananas should be given in moderation (these can cause constipation). Remove fresh fruits and vegetables within 2 hours of offering to prevent spoilage. If the bird gets too much liquid from the fresh fruits and vegetables, the droppings could become runny and discolored. Stop the fresh fruits and vegetables for a day to see if this is the reason. Birds require fresh water each day. Wash and rinse their water cup out thoroughly prior to adding fresh water to reduce bacteria growth. Powdered vitamins (only necessary if on a seed diet) can be lightly sprinkled on the fresh food, but putting it in the water can encourage bacterial growth.

Housing: When choosing a cage for your parrot, remember width is more beneficial to the bird than height. Parrots must be able to stretch their wings and still have room for a variety of toys without hitting them, therefore, the larger the cage the better. Ideally, the cage for an African Grey Parrot should measure a minimum of 32 " length by 36" high and 32" wide. Perches are an essential part of the cages and should be chosen to suit the feet of the bird. A variety of perch sizes, shapes, and diameters will help exercise the bird's feet and toes. Place perches strategically to prevent droppings from contaminating water and food dishes and to prevent the tail from hanging in dishes or on the floor.

A variety of toys, such as bells and wooden blocks in the parrot cage will assist you in entertaining your bird. Be sure that when choosing toys, they be intended for a large parrot and not for something small such as cockatiels or parakeets. Always have a cuttlebone or mineral block available to supply calcium and prevent beak overgrowth. To aid the bird in keeping itself clean, we recommend lightly misting it with tepid water on a weekly basis. Place your parrot's cage below eye-level in a bright area free from drafts and direct sunlight.