African Grey Congo

  African Grey  Congo, often referred to simply as the grey parrot, is truly a marvel of the avian world:

Identification & Physical Traits

• Size & Appearance: About 33 cm (13 in) long, weighing around 400–500 g. It has light grey plumage, darker head and wings, bright cherry-red tail feathers, and a black beak

• Juveniles vs. Adults: Young birds have dark grey to black eyes that gradually change to pale yellow in adulthood

Natural Habitat & Conservation

• Range: Native to western and central Africa, spanning from Ivory Coast to western Kenya, including regions of Cameroon, Congo, DRC, Angola, and othersStatus: Classified as Endangered, facing a sharp population decline due to habitat loss and heavy capture for the pet trade Worryingly, between 40% and 60% of wild-caught birds die during trafficking

Behavior & Ecology

• Social & Family Life: These parrots are monogamous and often nest in tree cavities, typically in small, family-based groups

• Communication: They are highly social and use a variety of calls to stay interconnected and alert against dangers

Intelligence & Talking Ability

• Remarkable Mimics: Congo African Greys are famous for their speech imitation. Some can learn over 2,000 words and even use them contextually, displaying cognitive abilities likened to a 5-year-old human

• A famous case study—Dr. Pepperberg’s Alex—demonstrated their capability to not only mimic words but understand and use them meaningfully The Spruce Pets Parrot Essentials.

As Pets: Care Requirements & Considerations

• Long Lifespan: In captivity, they can live 40 to 60 years, with some reports extending up to 80 years WikipediaThe Spruce Pets.

• Diet: Requires a balanced diet rich in pellets, fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, and adequate calcium (e.g., via cuttlebone) to prevent deficiencies and heart issues Parrot Beauty of Birds.

• Housing & Enrichment:

  • A roomy, secure cage with dimensions around 90 × 60 × 120 cm is recommended Parrot Essentials.

  • Must include toys, perches, swings, and be located where they get interaction but not excessive noise or drafts Parrot Essentials PangoVet.

  • These parrots are highly intelligent and social—without proper engagement, they may develop behavioral problems like feather plucking The Spruce Pets.

• Handling & Training: They are cautious by nature—building trust steadily is key. Avoid punitive methods PangoVet.

• Breeding: In the wild, they lay 3–5 eggs per clutch; captive breeding can occur from around age 4. Pairs are bonded and often duet, with both parents involved in chick rearing PangoVetbirdkingdom.orgWikipedia.

Ownership: Important Considerations

• High Commitment: They require time, patience, attention, and long-term care planning The Spruce Pets+1.

• Cost & Availability: A Congo African Grey can cost anywhere from US $500 to $4,000, depending on age, health, and source. Always choose reputable breeders or consider adoption Beauty of Birds.

• Ethical Concerns: The illegal pet trade poses a serious threat to wild populations; opting for rescued or captive-bred birds is more sustainable