How to Identify a Wild African Grey Parrot

African grey parrots are a wildly popular parrot for people that want a pet parrot. Because they are not as flamboyantly colored as their Amazon cousins, people don’t often recognize them as a parrot when they see them. When born and raised in captivity, the African grey parrot makes a very intelligent and affectionate pet. They have a long life span, with some reportedly living a 100 years.

Instructions

  1. Wild African Grey Parrot

    • 1

      Understanding that there are different types/species of Wild African grey parrot's is the first key to identifying one when you see it. The first species is called the Congo, which is typically considered extremely intelligent but temperamental. The second species of wild African grey parrot is a little smaller and more laid back and is called Timneh.

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      Commonly found in the Congo, Wild African grey parrots can also be found in western and central Africa. Some wild African grey parrots have also been reported in the western edges of eastern Africa.

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      Look not to the skies, but rather the tree trunks when you are searching for wild African grey parrots. Unlike many birds, most wild African grey parrots seem to be more comfortable climbing than flying, even though they are more then capable of flying. It is not unusual to spend an entire day observing a group of wild African grey parrots and never see them take flight if they're not approached by a predator. If you plan on raising your own African grey parrot, you should plan on providing him with plenty of items that he can climb and chew.

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      Take note of the bird's coloring. Wild African grey parrots have a body that is completely covered in grey feathers. The back and wing feathers are the color of steel, while the wild African grey’s belly feathers are an interesting mix of lighter and darker grey feathers that make the parrot appear to have a brindled breast.

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      Look at the bird's beak. Wild African grey parrots have dark beaks.

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      Look past the parrot's beak at the parrot's face. You will notice that the face of the wild African grey parrots are white, and circles surround both of the parrot’s eyes.

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      Observe the color of the wild African grey parrot’s tail . The color depends on what species of Africa grey it is. The Congo’s tail feathers are bright red, while the Timneh’s tail is a mix of maroon and brown.