African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus erithacus)

These parrots are highly desired as companions, not only for their incredible
intelligence. There is a mystique, an aura about the African Grey that is
difficult to describe but is nonetheless underniably present. For many, the
Grey is the ultimate avian companion, the ultimate parrot.

African Grey Parrots tend to be very suspicious of new people, objects and
environments. They are highly strung, somewhat nervous birds, very
sensitive to the emotional content of any situation. It is rare for this parrot to
talk in the presence of those it does not know. A frightened Grey will growl, a
sound likenothing else on earth. These parrots are also known for their
predisposition to featherpicking, plucking and mutilation.

Although this parrot has the potential for becoming the best possible
psittacine companion, no one should even consider one of these grand birds
unless willing to make the commitment to provide the high degree of
emotional care they need and deserve.

The African Grey needs much more dietary calcium than most other parrots,
and every effort must be made to meet this need. Otherwise, the bird may
eventually develop hypocalcemic syndrome, suffering convulsions and
eventually dying, unles immediate veterinary care is sought.

Source: My Parrot My Friend, by Bonnie Munro Doane, Thomas Qualkinbush.

home