African Greys
African Greys are considered to be one of, if not the best talking parrot. They are exrtemely intelligent and can learn a variety of workds, phrases, voices and even languages. Tests have shown that African Greys can even identify colors and objects! It is little wonder that they are such popular pets.
However owning an African Grey is not for everyone. You must have the time and resources to give these highly intelligent birds a stimulating and healthy environment. An under stimulated and bored African Grey can quickly become depressed and self destructive. African Greys must not be kept in their cages for extra long periods of time. Your bird will pluck his or her feathers if bored so daily play, stimulation and freedom is a must.
African Greys love to mimic people so be aware that they are listening to your every word! They can live for up to 65 years so owning an African Grey bird is a long term commitment. You can not simply buy one and grow bored of it after a year or two.
African Greys need a fairly large cage at least 32 inches wide and 48 inches high. They need a variety of solid chewable toys and a bird bath. They also do not like smoke or strong smells so do not smoke cigarettes near them and refrain from using perfumes or air fresheners.
Diet can include bite sized portions of vegetables, fruits (apples, oranges, melon, sweet potato etc), fortified parrot pellet diet and plenty of fresh pure spring or distilled water.
African Greys hail from Africa and are obviously grey in color. There are two sub species; these are the Timneh and the Congo.
You can buy African Greys for around $1000 from a reputable breeder.