The African Grey Parrot - Mr. Intelligent!
If you want a parrot with a great intellect and undying loyalty, the African grey parrot is the perfect choice. Some experts consider African greys to be the most intelligent parrot in the world. They show a remarkable ability to talk and make other sounds and are also great problem solvers. On the downside, this bird species is considered one of the more shy varieties so it may not be suitable for those looking for a bird to clown around with.
There are two sub-species of African grey parrot, the Congo and the Timneh grey. The Congo grey is the larger of the two and is distinguished by a bright red tail. The second sub-species of African grey parrot, the Timneh is smaller in frame, darker in color, and has a maroon tail. The Timneh greys are said to be a bit more gregarious than the Congo greys but they do tend to be a little more neurotic.
The talking potential of both sub species of African grey parrots is about the same and not only can they imitate human voices, they can also mimic all sorts of sounds and whistles. However, not every African grey parrot will talk. If they do, it usually surfaces when the bird is about a year old. Some birds only talk when they are alone while others are happy to do so in the company of humans.
There have been instances where some African Grey parrots simply refuse to talk. It's not really clear why but most do talk very well indeed. Ironically, birds that are left in their cages and ignored show the greatest tendency to speak. The more these birds are handled the less likely they are to talk.
One interesting character trait of the African grey parrot is its tendency to bond with one primary human. Because of this, when other people besides the bonded human are around, the bird can become shy and introverted. There have been reports of cases when these birds have tried to protect a caregiver by fending off other humans! This phenomenon reminds us more of dogs than birds, but it is quite possible with African greys.
The African grey parrot is a notorious feather plucker and you will need to take steps to curtail this behavior if it gets out of hand. Timnehs are less likely to pluck that Congos. Parrots may pluck out of boredom, frustration too much or too little attention or dietary and environmental problems. Some birds have been known to start plucking if they have been scared at some time in their lives or because they have become a little neurotic.
If you are able to respect and understand that your African Grey parrot is a very special and intelligent bird which needs plenty of stimulation there is a good chance that you and your bird will be happy. Owners who aren't prepared to treat this bird with the sensitivity and respect it deserves should consider a budgie instead!
