African Greys Bird Breed Pictures,Characteristics, & Facts

The most popular bird among adopters is the African grey, Lewis says. The reason: Of all the birds that can talk, the African grey is considered the best talker, which is what attracts people to own one. But besides their talking ability, he says, this medium-size parrot is super intelligent, charming and sociable, making it one of the best parrots for pets.

Ricky Lowrimore of Texas loves the way his African grey is both affectionate and independent. "Irma can astound me sometimes by answering my questions, then other times she can be like a baby and wants her way," he says. "But I love her best because she knows when I'm sad and she will come to me and cuddle."

Because they're so smart, an African grey needs plenty of mental stimulation-foraging and puzzle toys that are stuffed with treats to find, shredding toys, lots of time with you, Lewis says.

"Boredom is a bird's worst enemy. If they start getting bored, that's when bad situations start to happen," he explains, including shrieking, feather plucking, and aggressive behavior. (It's fun for your grey to watch you jump when they bite!) They also are addicted to their routine and hate even slight switch ups, Lewis says.

Also known as:

There are two types of greys, the Congo African grey (CAG) and the Timneh African grey (TAG).

Average lifespan:

Over 30 years

Social needs:

African greys can be choosy about whom to bestow their love and kisses, says Lewis-usually, they play favorites with one member of the family.

Talking ability:

In a word, Wow-worthy. If your idea of a best pet bird includes the ability to speak and understand words and phrases, the African grey is your breed. "We have an African grey who's a permanent resident at the shelter and after four years she still says new things I've never heard her say almost on a daily basis," says Lewis. And while not all greys will talk, all of them will imitate the sounds they hear around the house-from the beeps of the smoke detector and microwave to a ringing phone-and repeat them all day long. If you're sensitive to noise, "that can grate on the nerves in a hurry," Lewis says.

Medical concerns:

Fungal infections: Aspergillus is a fungus, which can be found in your AC or heating systems or from organic debris wafting in from outside. When birds breathe in the spores, this fungus can start growing on their respiratory systems, says Dr. Rolfe. "It's nasty- it puts all sorts of toxins into the bloodstream, it invades their tissue and eats up their lungs," she explains. Check and clean the filters of your heating/air conditioning unit.

Feather picking: Feather picking isn't just a concern among African greys; it can affect all parrots, Dr. Rolfe says. There are a number of physical ailments that can cause this symptom, including parasites, mites, allergies and diseases, she says. But parrots can pluck their feathers out of boredom, stress, and frustration, too. So, if you see your African grey doing this, take them to the vet.