Congo African Grey Facts

Congo African grey parrots, or African greys or grey parrots, make good pets because they are some of the best talkers in the parrot kingdom. With the right amount of attention, they can learn words and even identify shapes and they can learn to communicate with their owners, according to the website Avian Web. They are medium-size birds with an average length of about 14 inches; they can live up to 30 years.

  1. The Facts

    • The Congo African grey originated in the Congo region in central Africa, where they live in flocks of up to 200 birds. The only difference between the Congo grey and the timneh grey is their physical appearance; the timneh grey has darker plumage, and the timneh has a lighter beak than the Congo African grey, whose beak is very dark.

    Behavior

    • Congo African greys need stimulation and interaction in their lives. They learn quickly and are known as "Einsteins of the bird world" because they have speaking skills and are thought to recognize the meaning of words as well, according to the website Bird Channel. They love to chew things, and it is important to keep something they can chew available. Some like to bite but they can be trained, through positive reinforcement, not to bite their human family. They are loud at times, which is something to consider before buying.

    Types

    • Congo African greys come in different varieties. Some have red feathers scattered throughout their plumage, and they are commonly referred to as kings or king greys. Red African greys have red plumage, lutinos have yellow pigment, grizzles have pink feathers in their plumage, blues have white feathers in their tails, and albinos have no pigment and Incomplete African Greys are primarily white with a small amount of pigmentation.

    Diet

    • Pet African greys need a balanced, healthy diet. Buy a trusted name-brand seed for the staple of your bird's diet. Greys enjoy variety and will eat many of the same foods you do. They like fruits and vegetables, including seeds, nuts, greens, cabbage, broccoli, carrots and sprouted seeds. Avian Web says don't give your grey caffeine, avocado, chocolate or junk food.

    Misconceptions

    • Some people think African greys attach themselves to only one person. The truth is that they're flock animals and they thrive in environments where there is a group, such as a family. They are timid and it takes time for them to become accustomed to and eventually, trust you. The key to developing trust with a Grey is spending time with it. Greys can bond with any member and more than one member of the household in this manner, according to the website It's a Grey's World.