The Congo African Grey Parrot

The Congo African Grey Parrot

The African Grey is an amazing bird which hails from the wilds of Africa. Revered for their beauty, personality and intelligence, african greys have come to be a popular addition to any family that wishes to co-exist with them.

Notice I didn't say "own" a grey as these birds can't be domesticated. Due to their long lifespan most greys available for purchase are only a generation or two from the wild. The very best you can do with a grey is honor the fact that they are extremely intelligent social creatures who will be happy to share your dwelling and your life, provided you give them the love and the respect they deserve.

There are two popular subspecies of african greys, the congo and the timneh. Timneh greys are smaller then congos and do not have the vibrant red-tail color of the congo. Timnehs are also much less expensive then congos, but still make fine companions.

Congo greys are various shades of grey over most of their body (wings being a bit darker grey), with a white leather-like featherless mask around their eyes and a brilliant crimson-red tail that is generally only a few inches long. They can grow to 12-14 inches in length and weigh around a pound or so.

Young greys will have jet black eyes that turn to a yellowish-cream color when they have reached about 2 yrs of age. A hand-fed young congo grey will be priced anywhere from $800 to $1200.

For more on African Grey Parrots check out BirdBoard.com or AfricanGreyForum.com