IS OWNING A GREY PARROT THE RIGHT THING FOR YOU?
Grey parrots can live as long as their owner, if not more depending on the age of the owner when acquiring the parrot. They also have very specific needs and demand a great deal of care and attention. No-one should venture blindly into such a commitment, and here are some crucial guidelines and resources for potential parrot owners.
Only consider buying pet grey parrots if:
a) The birds have closed leg bands (proving they were captive-bred).
b) The owner is prepared to invest 30-50 years into a caring and demanding relationship.
c) The owner is prepared to provide a varied and balanced diet that mimics their wild food as far as possible. Sunflower seeds, apples and biscuits are not sufficient.
d) The owner is prepared to provide an environment with plenty of stimulation and exercise opportunities.
e) The owner buys more than one bird.
A vital resource
World Parrot Trust has a useful learning centre and reference library for pet parrot owners on their website. Among many other resources, it includes a discussion forum, expert advice, a guide to ethics and a listing of avian veterinarians:
WORLD PARROT TRUST -ALL ABOUT PARROTS
Useful reading
To inform your decision, learn more about the pet parrot industry and the impact on wild populations in this week’s feature:
SHADES OF GREY
To understand the grey parrot’s natural behaviour and dietary requirements, read:
GET TO KNOW THE GREY PARROT
To comment on this story please join our PRIVATE TRAVEL & CONSERVATION CLUB. See details below.
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF AFRICA GEOGRAPHIC:
- Join our private travel & conservation club (mobile app and desktop) to enjoy significant benefits, including the best prices at Africa’s top lodges and networking with others like you. Find out more here.
- Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to enjoy more stories like this. Subscribe here.
- Travel with us. Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late and a few kilometres off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity? Search for your ideal safari here, or contact an Africa Geographic safari consultant to plan your dream vacation.
We're the Africa Geographic editorial team – a diverse set of writers, editors, designers and social media natives, all united by our passion for this addictive continent.
