Congo African Grey Parrot

The Congo African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus erithacus) is renowned for its superb intelligence and prodigious imitative abilities. It is slightly larger than the Timneh African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus timneh) and has a little bit different coloring. Timneh greys have darker feathering and maroon-colored tails, while Congo greys are lighter in color and have bright red tails. Congo African Grey parrots are very long-lived, their life span exceeding 50 years.

Many (but not all) Congo African Grey Parrots are great talkers, and can accumulate vocabulary of 1500-2000 words. Although Congo greys are generally believed to be better talkers than Timneh greys, it is quite arguable, since there is great individual variation in speaking abilities and overall intelligence.  Some are capable of talking in long phrases and sentences associating them with concrete events and situations and can respond to their owners’ utterances. Many parrots can imitate alarm-clocks, doorbells, telephones, etc.

Statistically, the more intelligent a mind, the more stimulation it requires. This is also the case with Congo African Grey Parrots. Many of these birds reach the intelligence level of a five-year-old human, and hence they cannot do without communication. These parrots appreciate various sorts of interaction and cannot do without attention on the part of their loved ones. Usually, they bond with one particular person in a family and are often suspicious of strangers. However, if socialized properly from the very beginning, they can be equally friendly with anyone entering the house.

Congo African Grey Parrots are very sensitive to their owners’ frame of mind and often share feelings and emotions with their human masters. It takes a while for a newcomer to gain respect and trust of a parrot. Prolonged stress or lack of interaction can lead to feather-picking, which is actually a neurotic behavior. Agitation or fright may trigger an outburst of aggression, which can result in a painful bite or scratch. For this reason, Congo African Grey parrots are no great companions for young children.

These birds love space; therefore, they appreciate large and tall cages with bar spacing of ¾ to 1 inch. Cages should be placed in places where the bird is most likely to enjoy communication and interaction, but beware of direct sunlight and draughts.  For better physical stimulation, it is recommended to purchase cages equipped with bars and perches, so that the parrot can climb and rest. A wide array of toys will keep your pet entertained and prevent anxiety.

Congo greys require balanced and regular nutrition. Usually, they thrive on pelleted foods, which you can pick up with the help of a veterinarian. Some fresh fruits, seeds and vegetables are also good. Congo African Grey Parrots can be prone to obesity, so make sure they do not take fatty foods and have enough exercise.