28/03/2023
African grey parrot. Classification
There are 2 species of African Grey Parrots. These are Psittacus erithacus and Psittacus timneh. These parrots are commonly referred to as the Congo African grey and the Timneh African grey, respectively. These parrots are classified as being part of the Psittacidae family which makes these birds "true parrots,"
Size and Appearance
African Greys are considered to be medium size parrots. Fully grown, they are about 1 foot tall with a wingspan less than 2 feet. African Greys also tend to weigh about 1 pound.
The African Greys' feathers are almost all completely grey. They have some lighter shades on their undersides and darker grey on their backs and the top of their head. They have yellow eyes and red tail feathers.
Males and females look identical. Genetic testing or internal veterinary inspection is necessary to determine the s*x of these birds.
Diet
In nature, African Grey parrots maintain a diet consisting of fruit, nuts, seeds, flowers, tree bark, insects and snails.
As pets, African grey parrots are fed pellets, fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains.
Natural Habitat and Conservation
African grey parrots live wildly in African countries, close to the equator.
African grey parrots are considered to be endangered and the capturing of wild birds of these species is illegal. Therefore, African Grey parrots that may be seen in the pet trade come from a lineage of birds that have been bred for the purpose of companionship for generations. This is beneficial to both bird owners, and the African Greys which live in the wild.
Health
As with any pet, it is recommended to bring your pet African Grey Parrot to your veterinarian for regular check-ups. Although uncommon, it is possible for these birds to contract fungal infections, bacterial infections, psittacine beak and feather disease, tapeworms, blood-worms as well as develop tumors. The most common nutrient deficiencies in parrots are calcium and vitamin A deficiencies.
African Grey parrots live for 20 years in the wilds and may live to be in their 40s as pets.
African Grey Parrots as Pets
African Grey parrots are a very popular choice for birds owners when choosing a pet parrot. These birds are known for their superior intelligence and talking abilities that could bring a smile to any person's face. African Greys are often considered to have the intelligence of a five year old child.
Another big reason to consider an African grey parrot as your next pet is that African Grey parrots are more content with their alone time then other parrots. Many parrots, especially when they are the only bird in the household desire and seek a large amount of attention from their owner. African Greys do enjoy interacting with their owners but also enjoy playing on their own when their owner is unavailable.
