*Parrots are intelligent, social birds that thrive on interaction and routine. The Parrot Education Hub covers key topics like diet, mental stimulation, talking and training, and long term health - giving you the tools to create a fulfilling life for your feathered friend.
African grey parrot is a beloved and highly intelligent bird, known for its remarkable talking ability and emotional depth.
There are two main types of African greys - the Congo African grey and the Timneh African grey.
Congo is the larger and more commonly seen variety, easily recognized by its vivid red tail and elegant shades of grey that fade from dark on the head to silvery on the chest.
Timneh, on the other hand, is smaller with a darker, charcoal-like body, a maroon tail, and a beak that’s partly pinkish in color.
While their appearances differ, both types are incredibly smart, capable of mimicking voices and household noises, and tend to be observant and thoughtful companions once they feel safe and secure.
Though Timneh matures more quickly and is often considered more emotionally stable, both types of African greys can thrive as companions with proper care, patience, and stimulation.
Timnehs may start forming simple sentences around six months old, while Congos often begin vocalizing after their first year - but both are equally capable of developing expansive vocabularies and mimicking a variety of sounds.
Each bird has a unique personality, and with the right nurturing environment, they can become cherished members of any household.
Chewy editorial team reminds us, whether you welcome a Congo or a Timneh into your life, the journey with an African grey is one of deep connection, intelligence, and decades of joyful companionship.
