Psittacus erithacus
Endangered
Famed for their intelligent mimicry and striking red tail, the Grey Parrot is a captivating resident of Central and West Africa's lush habitats. As the continent's most illustrious parrot, this alluring bird navigates through the rainforests and savannahs, its vibrant plumage and astute foraging making it a remarkable spectacle amidst Africa's abundant birdlife.
Males and females have similar plumage
Grey
Grey
White, Dark Grey
White, Black
Grey
Grey
Short
Black
Black
Grey
Grey
Bright red tail feathers
Less bright red tail feathers
Short and rounded
Less rounded
33cm to 40cm
Length
46cm to 52cm
Wingspan
400g to 550g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Grey Parrot in-flight
Grey Parrot perching on a branch
Pair of Grey Parrots preening
Grey Parrot crouching on a branch
Grey Parrot in-flight over parkland
Portrait of a Grey Parrot
Varied, known for mimicking human speech and sounds
Wide range of whistles, squawks, and mimicry
Loud, harsh squawks
Active during the day, resting in the afternoon
Live in pairs or small groups
Defends nesting and feeding territories
Local movements related to food availability
Interacts with other bird species in feeding areas
Seeds, Fruits, Nuts
Forages in trees and on the ground
Morning and evening
Uses beak to manipulate and crack open food items
Varies with habitat and season
Requires a varied diet for optimal health
Tree cavities
Simple, lined with wood chips
Depends on the region, typically during the dry season
One
White, elliptical
Approximately 4cm x 3cm
2-3 eggs
Around 30 days
Approximately 12-15 weeks, but will stay with parents for at least 30 more days
In majority of pairs, males feed the females whilst incubating. Once hatched, both parents feed chicks
Central and West Africa
Rainforests, mangroves, savannahs
Up to 2200 meters
Local movements related to food availability
Rainforest, Savannah
Tropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.
Distribution notes
Populations introduced to both Benin and Togo.
Resident or Present
40
60
50 year(s)
3-5 year(s)
5-6 year(s)
Monogamous
Changes in plumage brightness and beak coloration
Endangered (IUCN Red List)
Habitat loss, illegal pet trade
Protected status in many regions, conservation and rehabilitation programs
Population declining due to habitat loss and capture for pet trade
Other names:
African Grey Parrot, Congo Grey Parrot
Family:
PsittacidaePopulation size:
560,000
Population trend:
Decreasing
Conservation status:
Endangered
IUCN Red List
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