What Does It Mean When an African Gray Bobs Its Head Up and Down?

The African Grey species of parrot is a shy and cautious bird that requires a great amount of time and energy from their handler or owner to become a confident, well-mannered talker. There are three species of African Grey and most learn to talk by reaching one year of age Because of their high intelligence and long lifespan, understanding the body language and behaviors of parrots is necessary to provide optimal care.

  1. Body Language

    • Birds have a complex system of body language and behaviors that are used to communicate with other flock and family members. Head-bobbing is a non-aggressive behavior that means the bird would like to share quality time. Sometimes, birds will regurgitate while head-bobbing; while it is a sign of affection, excessive regurgitation means an underlying problem. Pacing back and forth on a perch or cage top is an eager request to be picked up.

    Beak Language and Vocalizations

    • All birds have the need to vocalize, and many parrots will sound off for up to 10 minutes when the sun moves into dawn, midday and dusk positions. Beak cracking or grinding is a sign that parrot species such as African Greys are content and happy with there surroundings. Whistles and chatters are much like us thinking out loud and responding to our environment. Contact calls (flock calls) are long and loud and signal that the parrot is anxious at being alone. And because these birds are very smart, they can learn to call for items by their name or title, such as momma, treat and fruit.

    Legs, Wings and Tail Feathers

    • No part of the bird is excluded in providing clues to the needs of companion parrots. When birds are standing comfortably on two feet, they are content, and when Greys stand on one foot with a fluffy appearance, they are happy and relaxed as well. When Greys beat their wings they are stretching and exercising their wing muscles. And just like dogs, parrots wag or flick their tell when they are excited or happy to see their caregiver.

    Warnings

    • While all body language communicates something to the owner or handler, there are some unwanted behaviors that communicate just as much. Excessive screaming communicates that the bird needs food, water or quality interaction with owner and toys. Drooping wings communicates exhaustion and illness, and feather plucking communicates illness. Biting and aggressive behavior communicates the bird has been roughly handled and is afraid of human contact.