African Grey Care

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They are incredibly intelligent birds, with significant evidence of this from Dr Irene Pepperberg who started her research in the 1950’s and still carries on today, financed by The Alex Foundation, has evidenced that they have the intellect akin to a 5 year old human. While this intelligence makes them exceptional companions, it also means they are highly sensitive to boredom, stress, and social isolation. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, Greys are prone to behavioural problems such as feather plucking, excessive vocalisation, and over-dependence on a single caregiver.

To prevent these issues, a high level of enrichment is crucial. Activities like puzzle toys, foraging, interactive training sessions, simply reading or talking to your bird daily can go a long way in building trust and keeping their minds engaged. Greys enjoy exploring all areas of their environment and benefit greatly from having access to natural wood perches of varying sizes. Changing up their toys regularly helps prevent boredom.

Due to their natural environment, these are dusty housemates and that’s why it’s important to buy an air purifier for your home. Without this, dust and dander can build up in you and your grey’s living space, causing respiratory problems for both of you. Even with regular dusting and cleaning, however, your feather friend’s dust can still be found on furniture which is why regular bathing options are essential. Offering a mister, spray or a bath (in mine’s case their water bowl!) can not only reduce the amount of dust they produce but also aid in moulting, ensuring those feathers look in tip top shape!

 

When discussing diet Greys are the most commonly seen species in veterinary clinics with weaker bones, respiratory issues, and kidney failure due to a severe lack of Calcium and Vitamin A. In the wild, these parrots expend enormous amounts of energy foraging, flying, and climbing—something most pet Greys cannot replicate. Unfortunately, many are fed seed-based commercial diets that are high in fat and low in essential nutrients. An ideal diet consists of high-quality pellets combined with fresh vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach. Sprouted seeds and legumes are also excellent additions. Fruits and nuts should be given only in moderation, as treats. Older owners I have encountered give their Greys chicken bones to help increase their calcium levels, however, this can be dangerous and unnecessary as calcium, as well as vitamin A, can be found in dark green vegetables and sprouted seeds. If you are really struggling to offer this to your Grey, try to present food in different shapes and sizes. Food on the floor doesn’t mean they are not eating it, parrots are naturally messy eaters!

Even with a high-quality pellet-based diet and fresh produce, African Greys often require additional calcium supplementation due to their uniquely high needs. Calcium can be provided via powdered supplements added to soft foods or soluble calcium drops in drinking water—though the latter must be used carefully to avoid over-supplementation. Cuttlebone and mineral blocks can offer physical enrichment as well as extra calcium, although your Grey may not use these. Your avian vet can help determine your Grey’s calcium needs through blood tests to recommend a specific supplement type and dosage schedule.

Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium absorption and cannot be reliably obtained through food alone. Our feathered friends require either direct access to unfiltered natural sunlight or a full-spectrum UVB light to produce D3 naturally. If sunlight is not consistently available, or is in an unsafe environment, UVB lighting is the safest and most effective solution. UVB bulbs must be avian-safe, such as those designed specifically for birds (e.g., Arcadia or Zoo Med brands), and placed no more than 12 to 18 inches from the perch to be effective. The bulb should run for 8 to 10 hours per day and be replaced every 6 to 12 months depending on the brand. It’s important not to place the light behind glass or plastic, as this blocks UVB rays.

As with our other species, give them plenty of space; try to get the biggest cage you can afford for them- secondhand ones can be found for much less than brand new but just make sure they are clean, powder coated and show no signs of rust!

These birds are built to fly and climb, so daily opportunities for out-of-cage time are non-negotiable. Ideally, your Grey should be flighted unless a veterinarian advises otherwise. Providing play gyms, ropes, swings, and multiple surfaces to climb can help prevent obesity and supports overall health.

A consistent daily routine is also beneficial, particularly regarding sleep. African Greys should have ten to twelve hours of uninterrupted rest in a quiet, darkened area each night. Without adequate sleep, birds can become irritable, aggressive, or anxious. You can use a cage cover or place the cage in a dark room away from household noise and light.

Regular veterinary care is vital. Your Grey should be seen by an avian-experienced vet at least once a year for a wellness check. African Greys are not sexually dimorphic, so determining sex requires a blood test or DNA analysis. While a leg band is usually acceptable for identification under CITES, microchipping is highly recommended in case your bird ever escapes or the band becomes worn/damaged. This is something you can discuss with your vet during a check-up.

African Greys are sensitive, intelligent, and long-lived parrots who require dedicated care and enrichment to thrive. With a balanced diet, calcium and vitamin D support, daily mental and physical stimulation, safe UVB exposure, and ongoing veterinary monitoring, your Grey can live a vibrant and fulfilling life by your side for years to come.