Description
African grey parrots have been pets for thousands of years—there are records of these birds as household pets in biblical times. They have a fascinating ability to reason and an uncanny talent for accurately mimicking words and phrases. They can also understand human speech, which has helped to catapult this bird to stardom in research circles and the pet trade. A well-trained African grey can learn hundreds of words, phrases, and sounds.
The African Grey Parrot (scientifically known as Psittacus erithacus) is a moderate-sized parrot species commonly found in Africa’s equatorial regions, justifying its name. One of the most intelligent birds and a perfect human companion, the bird is a common choice as a pet. Adopting and raising a grey parrot involves a lot of energy and time, but living with it is a rewarding experience nonetheless.
Housing
An African Grey Parrot cage should be at least 2ftX2ftX3ft in size. The bird should be given toys and a minimum of three perches inside the cage, but ensure there is no space shortage due to these additional items. It is more peaceful for the bird if the cage is hanged or placed in the corner of the room, above the ground. Ideally, The cage should be far from doorways, windows, or air vents and in a draft-free area.
Temperament
The smart bird is always busy, interacting with its owner or playing with its toys. In the meantime, it can imbibe the sounds and words it is exposed to, and once they get a new word by heart, repeating them is a common practice, so you should always be careful while talking in front of it. Even the bird is an expert at imitating the sound of a calling bell and pressure cooker if it has heard them.
The parrot loves to get to know new people and even “talk” to them, and sometimes it becomes excessively attached to its owner and demands his/her undivided attention. When appropriately trained, it can spend some quality time outside the cage, and the parrot would love it. Whether there is something on the radio or a TV show, the bird enjoys all sorts of entertainment for its enrichment besides playing with toys. Head bobbing is a common body language for the bird, meaning it wishes to communicate with you or wants to play.
When bored, either caused by too many of the same activities or doing nothing for an extended period, the bird indulges in self-destructive behavior like plucking its feathers and making loud noises to express disapproval of the situation. This situation could be so serious that you might want professional help to fix it.
Feeding
Give the bird fresh fruits, pelleted supplements, and vegetables rich in beta-carotene (fresh kale and cooked potatoes). Occasional treats like bread, sprouts, salads, and hemp are also recommended.
Don’t give the bird caffeinated or alcoholic products, salted foods, uncooked beans, asparagus, onions, chocolate, and avocado, as they are highly toxic for parrots.
Care
Training and keeping the bird busy are the two basic things for you; they are serious commitments. Interact with your bird and engage it in some conversation, as this is good for its mental exercise.
As far as grooming is required, this bird needs daily bathing from a shallow tray or mist spray (whichever your bird likes). Professionals should avoid clipping of flight feathers and trim nails.
African greys are social parrots that need a lot of hands-on time. However, they aren’t “cuddle bugs.” They will tolerate some head-scratching and a little bit of petting. Still, they do not appreciate intense physical contact, though some don’t mind a little snuggling.
They can be wonderful and affectionate, but, like other large parrots, African greys are considered high-maintenance pets. While “greys” are entertaining and rewarding to keep, they prefer a routine schedule. As a result, they require a substantial amount of time with their owners.
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