Noted for their superb intelligence, the African grey parrots have been cherished by many civilizations. Based on their inclusion in age-old hieroglyphics, it appears that the ancient Egyptians were among the first people to keep these birds as pets. They were also popular with Greeks and Romans.

Although they do not begin talking until later in life than some other parrots do, African greys are well noted for their speaking ability. If you have the good fortune to own one, just have patience and your bird will probably talk when he is ready.

Some people are surprised to find out that not all parrots talk. If you are purchasing a parrot solely as a talker, it is important to know your bird may or may not be a speaking bird. African greys and other parrots are wonderful companions, even if they don’t speak.

Some talking birds just imitate a few words that they have heard many times, but the grey is much more intelligent than that. Greys can learn a vocabulary of over two-thousand words, and are so smart that they learn some of the meaning of those words by watching the person who speaks them.

Ownership of African grey parrots requires a commitment to the animals. They are not timid birds and want to be involved in activities and have things they can play with. You can’t expect them to be happy in some small cage with limited interaction with their owner.

While outgoing, the grey still is careful of its surroundings and takes time to acclimate. When they become accustomed to their new home, they prefer only the person or persons that tend to them. It is not odd for a grey to learn the moods of its master.

For the owners who treat their birds well and show them patience, the African grey is a dedicated friend and family member. Some become attached to only one person in their lifetime. They are suspicious of new people and places. However, they do become comfortable and outgoing once they become accustomed to their environment.

The grey is a very entertaining pet, and a person can spend countless hours watching them clown around or play with toys. When things aren’t going just the way he wants, the parrot will screech loudly at whatever upsets him. When they speak their first words, it is a thrill, but if that is not to be, they are still wonderful to have around.

People who don’t have the time or patience required to properly train and love African grey parrots should not consider adoption. This intelligent creature does not function well if it doesn’t have human interaction.

Parrot ownership can be a challenge, but if you are willing to give the job what is required, this bird can become your true best friend.

By: John M Yui

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