AFRICAN GREY  

The African Grey is a favorite pet to many because they are extremely intelligent and sociable birds. Greys pick up on words and sounds very quickly, with owners reporting birds that mimic the sounds of telephones, microwaves, and other pets like dogs & cats. So watch what you say! Their high IQ's mean that they require more time from their owners than some smaller birds. They thrive when put on meticulous schedules and don't generally like to deviate much from their daily routine. Properly cared for Greys often bond strongly to their owners, and become affectionate and captivating pets. Their average lifespan is 50 – 75 years.

Diet

Free feed daily fortified small parrot seed or pellet. Supplement with small amounts of fruits and vegetables: dandelion greens, carrots, cooked broccoli, cucumber, green peppers, zucchini, pineapple, apricot, and banana. Many Greys also enjoy a variety of treats and snacks such a seeds, nuts, eggs, and small bits of cheese. Do not feed avocado or rhubarb. A vitamin and mineral supplement may be mixed with food once a week. 

A cuttlebone or mineral block is important for beak condition and oyster shell or gravel for important minerals.

Housing  

The African Grey is considered a large bird and as such they need comfortable housing. Provide a roomy cage, minimum 30"L 30"W 48"H, with horizontal bars ¾” apart to make climbing easier along with an outside play area. Place at least two perches at different heights so the droppings do not get into the food. Use various sized perches and branches for healthy feet along with ropes, chains and swings for climbing and exercising. Where you place the cage is important. Place your bird's cage below eye level, near where they can socialize but in a stress-free environment, such as the corner of a living room. Parrots are sensitive to smoke, wind drafts and strong odors. Cover the cage at night to provide a sense of security and prevent drafts. If their environment is too stressful they may pull their feathers out.

Care

Basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Change paper bottoms daily and litter coverings every 2-3 days. Clean and disinfect the cage weekly. Wash and completely dry the perches and toys whenever they become soiled.

Grooming

Greys generally maintain their beaks on their own through chewing. Your birds will enjoy a bath or a light spray mist of lukewarm water 2 to 3 times weekly. Wings should be kept trim if you want to discourage flight and prevent flight through an open door or window. Occasional nail trims will be needed.

Health

A balanced diet, cleanliness and plenty of exercise will prevent most parrot illnesses. Greys should be allowed to spend a minimum of one to two hours out of their cages daily, and should be provided with plenty of bird chew toys to facilitate exercising their mandibles. Boredom and lack of socialization can lead to feather plucking, biting and screaming. Some signs of illness: sitting with eyes closed, ruffled feathers, lack of appetite, irregular breathing, nasal discharge, sneezing, resting with its head turned back, and any change in the dropping. Consult an avian veterinarian if any of these signs are noticed.