Whether you are thinking about living with an African Grey parrot, or just curious about them, here are some common questions we get. If you don’t have a lot of time or patience then I would not suggest them as a companion animal. One thing to consider is that there are many parrots out there that are up for adoption because the person did not know what they were getting into. If you are dead set on getting one, consider the adoption route.
Are African Greys suitable for apartment living?
In my first year with Coco, my Congo African Grey, we lived in a studio apartment in Portland, OR. She wasn’t always loud, but her mimicry of my fire trucks at 8 am nearly got me evicted. If you’re in an apartment, be ready for unpredictable sounds. These birds are intelligent, vocal, and sometimes hilariously inconvenient.
How much daily interaction do they require?
During my graduate school years and later veterinary college, I scheduled my classes around Coco’s most active hours. I ensured I came home during the day to study with Coco by my side. She thrived on routine and expected at least three solid hours of daily social time—whether talking, training, or sitting nearby while I read. Without that, she’d start screaming and screeching like a toddler having a tantrum.
Do African Greys tend to bond with only one person?
Yes and no—it can cause drama. Coco latched onto me early and barely tolerated other people, even lunging when they got too close. Over time, with treats and consistency, we helped Coco warm up to others, but it took months and lots of patience.
How prone are they to behavioral issues like feather plucking?
Sadly, some birds go through a plucking phase. This can happen if you take a job that requires more extended hours. African Greys are sensitive and intelligent, and stress manifests physically. They can pluck their chest feathers until you come home. A rotating toy setup, more foraging challenges, and a part-time pet sitter can help your bird combat boredom. We make DIY foraging boxes for our parrot. These help keep her entertained if we are out working long hours.
What constitutes a balanced diet for an African Grey?
Don’t make the rookie mistake of giving your grey too many sunflower seeds. Although they may love them, they aren’t a healthy staple. After some research and a consult with an avian vet, I shifted to pellets, fresh veggies, BirdieBistro fresh food, and rotating fruits like papaya and mango. My bird loves this daily variety, which keeps her healthy. I take her to an avian vet annually, and her health is in tip-top shape!
What are common health issues to watch for?
African Greys are notorious for calcium deficiency. Per my veterinarian’s recommendation, I added plenty of calcium-rich veggies to her diet. Also, always watch for changes in droppings; they’re often the first sign something’s off.
At what age do they start talking, and how extensive can their vocabulary be?
Many African Grey parrots will start talking somewhere around 6 to 12 months old, but don’t be surprised if yours takes closer to a year and a half to get a clear word out. Coco said her first words at almost 2 years old. At that time, I began to think she wouldn’t be a talker. But after hearing me constantly tell her, “I have to take the dogs out now,” she began repeating it.
Here are some tried and true ways to get your African grey to talk more.
By age three, she was stringing together simple phrases like “Want some nuts?” and “Time to go to bed, Coco.” She surprised guests regularly by impersonating my ringtone or repeating my partner’s laugh almost perfectly.
Can they understand and use words in context?
Absolutely. Coco would ask, “Are you ok?” when someone was obviously upset. Usually, when I leave the room, she mutters, “See you later,” which floored me. These birds are not just doing mimicry; they are in tune with your emotional state.
How do African Greys handle changes in environment or routine?
I’ve heard many other parrot parents walk about their bird refusing to eat for two days after rearranging the furniture in the room. African Greys crave consistency, and any disruption can throw them off.
However, my Coco does not mind any variations. Her openness to new things may be because she has been experiencing them regularly since I got her.
I’ve learned to gradually make changes, always involving her by showing and narrating my actions.
Is it advisable to travel with an African Grey?
I’ve taken Coco on road and airplane trips since the first year I’ve had her. She never seemed to be stressed out. But, many African Grey’s do not do well with travel. The ones who don’t do well with travel may be birds that haven’t had enough exposure. So, the key thing to remember is to take it slow and gradually introduce your bird to the outside world.
awesome ideas for travel cages
I’ve used many of these parrot travel cages on a regular basis!
If you’re considering bringing home an African Grey, know that you’re getting into a relationship rather than a pet ownership. These birds are brilliant, hilarious, high-maintenance companions who’ll challenge your patience daily. Only bring one into your home if you are ready for a full-time commitment.