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One of the most beautiful and among the easier species of parrot to keep is the African Grey Parrot. Originating from central Africa, they are highly intelligent and known for their exceptional talking and cognitive ability. African Greys are capable of developing a large vocabulary and may be able to communicate well with their owners.

The African Grey Parrot comes in mainly 2 subspecies. The main difference between the Congo and Timneh subspecies is their size and color. Normally both the Congo and Timneh African Grey parrots are considered to be medium in size. The Timneh Gray Parrot is known to be smaller in size, but fuller in feather thickness. Their body feather color ranges from medium to an almost dark charcoal gray, and their tail feathers are usually dark maroon red. The Congo Grey Parrot is usually larger in length and heavier in weight, but with thinner feathers. Lighter gray feathers and a bright red tail, further differentiate the Congo from the Timneh. And the final main difference between the two subspecies is the color of their beak, also known as the mandible. The top of the Timneh Gray Parrot’s mandible is a bone or cream color, while the Congo Gray Parrot’s mandible is almost all black.

African Grey parrots make great pets because they are very social birds. In the wild they will typically flock together. In the care of an owner an African Grey parrot will adopt this new family into their flock. They have been known to cuddle with their owners. Although they don’t like intense physical contact they do enjoy petting and head-scratching. Experience African Grey owners will not be put off by their bird’s strange signs of affections. Regurgitation for a Grey is a sign of deep affection. They will also try to “kiss” their owners on the mouth. This is not recommended because the human mouth contains bacteria that is dangerous to birds. It is important for their owners to understand these birds’s need for a companion. African Grey who becomes lonely may begin to vocalize excessively, pluck their own feathers, or they may start to bite. Because of these tendencies, African Grey parrots may not be good pets for a family who has children. Their beaks are strong and hard. Children may not understand this behavior. These birds also use their beaks almost as another hand; a way to explore the world.

The decision of choosing an African Gray Parrot subspecies for a parrot companion comes mainly down to personal preference. Both subspecies make gentle, loving, lifelong (living between 60-80 years) pets. Proper care, patience, and love are essential to the well being of the African Gray. Because of their high intelligence, the African Grays can become easily stressed and excitable. The African Gray Parrot may begin to behave poorly by chewing, biting, or plucking its feathers, if not properly cared for.

African Grey parrots are full of personality and human like qualities. Those who are lucky enough to own one are able to see intelligence not equaled in many other animals.