Owning an African Grey Parrot

The African Grey Parrot is one of the most popular species of parrot to own as a pet. Their tame nature and sweet disposition are reasons enough for most potential pet owners to choose the African Grey Parrot. Because they live for 60 to 80 years, the parrot is a lifelong commitment, one that should not be entered into lightly. It's important to plan, research, and understand the species before committing to the ownership of this amazing parrot.

Give Me a Kiss, Mwhu! by Peri Apex

The African Grey is a species of wild parrot found mainly in the coastal regions of West and Central Africa in countries such as Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Kenya, Angola, Sierra Leon, and many more. They are a very popular breed because of their high intelligence levels, their calm and gentle nature, and their incredible speaking and mimicry abilities. Because of these personality traits, the demand for the bird as pets is increasing. As the capturing and pet trading increases, so does the deforestation of the African Grey Parrot's habitat.

Choosing a wild parrot as a pet, further promotes parrot trading and deforestation. It also increases the risk of disease and behavioral problems. Choosing a parrot from a reputable breeder will allow for greater chances of parrot/owner relationship success. Choosing a parrot companion from a breeder that loves, hand rears, and understands the needs of the parrot species will ensure that a new parrot pet is happy, healthy, and well adjusted.

There are two subspecies of African Grey Parrot: the Timneh African Grey ("TAG") and the Congo African Grey ("CAG"). Both subspecies are considered to be a medium sized parrot, ranging in size from 10-14 inches. They vary only in feather and beak color and the regions of Africa to which they are endemic. Personalities and vocal abilities are similar, and when choosing, it really comes down to a matter of owner preference.

Breeders can assist in the process of transitioning the African Grey Parrot pet into their new home. They will provide new owners with specific care instructions such as nutritional needs, cage and grooming care instructions, and personality insights.

Like most parrot species, the parrot requires a well balanced, varied diet that includes, protein pellets, fresh fruits and vegetables, and seed and nut mixes. Their dishes and cage should be daily maintained by wiping down and washing all surfaces. The African Grey Parrot also requires plenty of cage room to stretch their wings. Because of their gentle and sensitive nature, they can become easily stressed if not transitioned gently.
Once the transition to their new homes occurs, the African Grey Parrot can begin a trick training and speaking routine. They are highly intelligent creatures, and if dealt with on a routine basis, they will respond well to trick and speech training instructions.

Choosing a parrot as a pet can be a wonderfully rewarding experience if properly researched beforehand. An owner must understand the enormity of their ownership responsibilities in order to have a successful relationship with your parrot. Owners must choose their parrots carefully. Above all, the owners of parrots must love unconditionally, patiently, and with their whole hearts in order to make the most of their new lifelong parrot friendship.

Author Resource: Patrick Dell is an African Grey Parrot expert. For more great information on the african grey parrots, visit his site dedicated to african grey parrot information.