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Helpful Information About the African Grey Parrot |
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Parrots are the most intelligent of all the birds, and are famous for
their ability to mimic human speech. Experts claim that they can even
understand the meaning of some words. The African Grey Parrot is the
best mimic in the animal kingdom. These wonderful and intelligent birds
have been kept as family pets for thousands of years. These parrots
were especially valued by the ancient Greeks and Romans. They were
often kept on board ships by sailors who were embarking on long
journeys.
There are two subspecies species of the African Grey Parrot which differ in appearance. The Congo African Grey and the Timeh African Grey both have feathers of gray with subtle shading and flecks of white. However, the Congo African Grey is the larger and a light plumage with a dark, red tail and a black beak.
On the other hand, the Timeh African Grey is smaller with darker gray feathers, a maroon tail and a lighter colored beak. Trade in parrots that have been caught in the wild is now prohibited. They can only be sold as pets if they have been bred in captivity.
Parrots can be a welcome addition to your family and can be friendly pets. However, you should keep them away from little children because they have been known to bite and scratch. The African Grey Parrot actually likes to socialize with people and with other parrots.
It's a good idea to place the cage in a room where there is human activity because they can get lonely. An African Grey Parrot can become bored and needs the stimulation of varied toys because of their level of intelligence.
Teaching parrots a few new words and phrases is a lot of fun. However, they might pick up some swear words that you would not want them to learn. They will stay healthy as long as you give them adequate attention. The African Grey Parrot must be fed with a diet that consist of the right amount of vitamins and calcium.
They like to eat leafy greens and they also enjoy cheese and almonds. Remember that their cage should be of sufficient size. You will be rewarded with an entertaining and interesting companion if you take special care of them. You can also have a lifelong friend because the African Grey Parrot can live up to around fifty years in captivity.
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