Baby Congo African Grey Parrot

African greys are the most intelligent of the parrot species. Many grow to be extremely sweet and affectionate toward their owners, and the species is known for being quite sociable.

However, an African grey that is bored or neglected is an unhappy bird. A depressed or angry bird will screech its discontent. You must provide the bird with lots of mental stimulation.

A highly intelligent bird is also a complex bird. Although it is very social and demands interaction, it is not necessarily a cuddly bird. Some of these birds tend to become “one-person” birds, even if owners make every effort to socialize them with all members of the family.

Pet African greys pick up on words and sounds very quickly. One African grey has even “blown the whistle” on a woman’s love affair by repeatedly calling out the other man’s name in front of her husband and using the cheating wife’s voice.

Like toddler children, African grey parrots have a reputation for repeating everything they hear. So, it’s wise to watch your language around these birds. Greys are adept at picking up and repeating any sounds they like, including squeaky doors, vehicle back-up chimes, fire alarms, microwave alert bells, and telephone ringtones. Owners need to be vigilant about what these birds hear—once a sound is learned, it is difficult or impossible for the bird to “unlearn” it.

The African grey is not known as a loud screamer. It can be suitable for owners living in apartments or condos, although neglected birds may scream their dissent for being ignored and can get noisy.