African Grey Parrots are a species of parrot native to West and Central Africa. Of the two main varieties of African Grey, the Congo African Grey Parrot has a more pronounced ability to imitate speech, and is therefore more popular as a pet.
The Timneh African Grey is similar in appearance, but has a horn-colored beak, maroon tail, and is slightly smaller.
Despite their popularity as pets, they have a powerful bite and sharp nails. Anyone looking to keep a parrot as a pet should get hands-on experience with the African Grey before acquiring one. In the wild, they eat a varied diet consisting primarily of nuts, fruits, and leaves. Pet African Greys should be fed a varied diet including pellets, fruits, vegetables, and a few nuts. Avoid feeding chocolate, dairy, salty foods, avocado rhubarb, as these are toxic to birds.
Though not independently confirmed, Birdlife International estimates that 21% of the African Grey population is eliminated from the wild each year. They are listed as "near-threatened" by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. This level is above the "least concern" listing, but is not dire enough to be considered "threatened".
Einstein - Best Talking African Grey
The trainer of this African Grey Parrot takes her through an incredible repertoire and impresses the guest on this Animal Planet episode. Einstein, the name of the African Grey, imitates and entourage of animals, whistles for a missing dog and boogies on down, when asked to by her owner.
References
Fast Facts
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Lifespan: 60 years
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African Greys are noted for their intelligence
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People have been keeping African Greys as pets for over 4,000 years
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Greys can have a vocabulary of over 2000 words and can mimic various sounds with amazing accuracy
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African Greys have the intellectual capacity of a 5 year old child
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Like all parrots, African Greys require frequent attention, various toys, a large cage and a stimulating environment
