History and Background

First, it’s important to know that there are two sub-species of African Grey - called Congo and the lesser known Timneh. Both are from Africa, with Timneh found in a smaller area, including Liberia and the Ivory Coast region. The Congo African grey is slightly larger than the Timneh, and has bright red tail feathers. The Timneh's tail feathers are darker and overall the Timneh usually has slightly darker coloration than the Congo, especially over the back (although not always the case). While the Congo's beak is grey, the Timneh's upper mandible is bone coloured with a dark edge, while the lower mandible is grey.

In the wild Greys lives and feeds in small areas. They are not-migrants. Usually they gather in large flocks and form subgroups of 20-30 birds. After hatching and fledging, the youth stay with the parents for 4-5 months. Adults usually pair for life and often feed and clean each other.

About a century ago, the African Grey and other parrots brought to ports to be sold to the Europeans,having found favour mostly with the ladies. Why is this? Well a saying aptly fits this bird is the African Grey's is the perfect mix of brains and beauty Generally speaking. They are cautious birds and have a tendency to sit back and watch you before giving themselves up freely. All African Greys have the potential to speak and imitate, not only human, but all manner of sounds and whistles. However, not all Greys speak well or at all. Do not buy an African grey just because you want a bird that talks. It is a very bad idea because you could end up disappointed and the bird could end up neglected and the grey will only start to talk after their first year of age. Greys are devoted to each other and preen each other just like the lovebird species of parrots do. If you keep a lone Grey, it will devote itself to you. The bird will clamour for your attention and relish hopping all over you.

11 Things You Should Know About Your African Grey - This will take you to another website.