How to Bond With an African Gray Bird

The African gray parrot is considered the best talker of any parrot species and as intelligent as a 5-year old human child. The birds can easily live 80 years under ideal conditions, are sensitive and loving, and typically bond closely with one person. An African gray requires love, interaction and devoted pet ownership to truly thrive.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats such as fruit or cheese
  • Shower perch
  • Parrot toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Approach your new African gray from the front. The birds do not like to be approached from the side or back. Always talk softly as you approach your bird and never show fear. Most parrot species instinctively know when someone is afraid of them, which will make it hard for them to form a bond.

    • 2

      Offer treats to your African gray. The birds enjoy a wide range of foods, such as fruits, vegetables or a simple piece of cheese. As your bird enjoys the treat, offer words of encouragement and talk easily.

    • 3

      Hold a toy out to your African gray. African grays adore toys and there are many available on the market, ranging from chew toys to blocks to climbing toys. If it tugs on the toy, gently tug back, then let go. Continue to talk softly to your bird during the interaction

    • 4

      Groom your bird by petting his head, face, chest and back. Many African grays also enjoy having their feet stroked. Grooming is a strong bonding technique used by other birds in a flock environment. In the wild and in an aviary setting, African grays will spend hours grooming one another in happy companionship.

    • 5

      Hold your bird in your lap when you watch television or read a book. African grays adore just sitting on you and beside you.

    • 6

      Shower with your African gray. Bird stores and online retailers sell perches for parrots that suction cup to the shower so that a bird can enjoy the shower mist with its owner. Make sure the thermostat is set to at least 80 degrees F so your bird does not catch a chill when you get out of the shower. Wrap your bird in a towel and pat it dry after the shower.