African Grey Parrot

Breed: African Grey Parrot
Scientific name: Psittacus erithacus
Place of Origin: Central Africa
Classification: Parrot
Average Price: R7,000 - R12,000 (Permit required)

Size Category: medium
Avg. Height: 33 cm.
Avg. Weight: 0.4 to 0.6 Kg.
Avg. Lifespan: 40 to 60 years.

Colours:
Grey with a bright red tail

Covering:
feathers

Vocalisation level:
mimic

Temprament:
Highly intelligent, sensitive, and social. Can be prone to anxiety and destructive behaviours like feather plucking if not adequately stimulated.

Trainability:
easy

Diet type: herbivore
Feeding frequency: Pellets available at all times, with fresh vegetables and fruits offered daily.

Foods to avoid:
Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, high-fat/salt items.

Health Concerns:
Prone to feather plucking (often behavioural), respiratory infections, and calcium deficiency.

Recommended Supplements:
A high-quality pellet diet is crucial. Calcium supplements may be necessary, especially for egg-laying females.

Grooming:
Enjoys and requires regular opportunities to bathe or be misted to maintain feather health.

Exercise:
Requires several hours of supervised time outside of its cage daily for interaction and flight in a safe, bird-proofed room.

Handling:
Requires experienced handling; can deliver a powerful bite if stressed or frightened. Not recommended for families with small children.
Ideal Location:
Kept indoors nationwide. They require a controlled indoor environment, protected from drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Space Requirements:
Requires a very large cage and a safe room for daily flight.

Climate Suitability: tropical

Temperature Range: Controlled indoor (18-25°C)

Humidity Range: Moderate to high (50-70%)