African Grey Parrot For Sale Glasgow? Top Answer Update

African Gray Parrots make rewarding pets because they require a high level of care.

But are they good birds for beginners, or do they require an experienced handler?

Gray parrots are not a good choice for beginners due to their highly intelligent and sensitive nature. They require a lot of mental stimulation, are very sensitive to their surroundings and do best when cared for by an experienced bird keeper.

Why African Grays are best for experienced bird keepers

Gray Parrots are fascinating bird creatures – and with the right owner, they can make wonderful pets. However, they require a lot of maintenance and a lot of attention.

Even the smallest changes in the environment can cause behavioral problems in an African Gray. Therefore, they are not best suited for novice bird keepers.

Grays also don’t like a lot of close physical contact, which may disappoint a novice bird owner looking for a companion to spend lots of snuggling time with.

They prefer light petting, head scratching, and non-physical interactions.

With the training of a skilled bird keeper, an African Gray can build an impressive vocabulary and learn to use their words appropriately.

Some Gray Africans have even demonstrated the ability to count and understand the concepts of categories.

African gray temperament

African gray parrots are brilliant birds that can be quite charming in their ability to communicate, but they can also quickly become unhappy if they don’t have enough stimulation or if their environment changes, even slightly.

Known as “The Einsteins of the Bird World,” these birds require special care and attention.

The two species of gray parrots are Timneh and Kongo. The Timneh is resilient in the face of chaos, while the Kongo is more vulnerable. Both make good companion birds but have different needs.

In general, it’s best to avoid making major environmental changes when caring for an African Gray Parrot. Make sure you also provide plenty of mental stimulation in the form of toys and interactions.

They’ll need a large cage or aviary and a significant amount of time outside the cage, so only consider getting an African Gray if you have plenty of space.

African grays are also known for their ability to pick up speech, mimicking many of the sounds they hear, from human speech to the ringing of a microwave.

How to care for an African Gray

Humans have kept Gray Africans since biblical times, and it is no wonder why; These birds are beautiful, intelligent, and loyal companions.

However, they also require special care and you need to consider those needs before getting one.

Here is a list of guidelines that explain how to groom an African Gray and help you understand why they are best for experienced owners.

Don’t clip the Gray African’s wings, at least initially. You have to learn to fly from a young age. Without their flight wings, they will have a hard time learning how to take off, land, or perform other basic maneuvers. When they are older they can tolerate a slight trim in their wings but this should only be done by a seasoned professional after consideration.

You have to learn to fly from a young age. Without their flight wings, they will have a hard time learning how to take off, land, or perform other basic maneuvers. When they are older they can tolerate a slight trim in their wings but this should only be done by a seasoned professional after consideration. Fledge your gray parrot to avoid falling. These birds have heavier bodies than most and can easily injure themselves from the force of a fall. It is important to allow the Gray African’s wings and flight instincts to develop so they can stabilize.

These birds have heavier bodies than most and can easily injure themselves from the force of a fall. It is important to allow the Gray African’s wings and flight instincts to develop so they can stabilize. Avoid letting your Gray Parrot sit on your shoulders, which is a slippery surface for them. Instead, offer your hand and keep your shoulder below your hand level to prevent scrambling.

Instead, offer your hand and keep your shoulder below your hand level to prevent scrambling. Trim your Gray Parrot’s nails regularly to avoid painful sores or scratches on your skin. Be careful not to cut the nails too short as this can destabilize your bird.

Be careful not to cut the nails too short as this can destabilize your bird. Find a perch that allows your gray’s feet to wrap almost completely around it for added stability. This is especially important if you have clipped your Gray Parrot’s nails.

This is especially important if you have clipped your Gray Parrot’s nails. Cover part of your Gray Parrot’s cage with a towel or blanket so he can hide when he wants to. This is very important if your bird cage is near a window.

This is very important if your bird cage is near a window. Look for signs of fear in your gray. Respond by whispering in soft tones and offering your bird a place to hide. Avoid exposing your gray to loud noises or vigorous activity, and know that if you are feeling anxious, your gray will also be feeling anxious.

Respond by whispering in soft tones and offering your bird a place to hide. Avoid exposing your gray to loud noises or vigorous activity, and know that if you are feeling anxious, your gray will also be feeling anxious. Choose a birdcage that is wide but not tall. Tall cages can increase an African Gray’s risk of falling, and wide cages give them enough room to stretch out and feel less cramped.

Tall cages can increase an African Gray’s risk of falling, and wide cages give them enough room to stretch out and feel less cramped. Place your bass at the bottom of the cage so the risk of falling is minimal.

Provide your African Gray with a water bath or bathe them regularly with clean water. This will remove excess dirt and oils that build up on the feathers, especially if the diet is high in fat and treated regularly.

This will remove excess dirt and oils that build up on the feathers, especially if the diet is high in fat and treated regularly. Wash your hands before touching your gray to avoid getting grease, oils, pathogens, or synthetic substances like lotions in your bird’s feathers.

If your gray is anxious or stressed, try making a “pushing” sound or a whispered click to calm him down.

What does an African Gray eat?

An African Gray needs a balanced diet of seeds, berries and grains and ideally eats in ways that mimic their natural feeding instincts.

LAFEBER’S Nutri-Berries bird seed is a perfect example of good gray parrot food; They are nutritionally complete and offer an interesting shape for foraging and beak play.

African gray parrots also do well with supplemental vegetables in their diet, such as fresh kale and cooked sweet potatoes.

This vegetable can prevent vitamin deficiencies that are common in African Gray Parrots, especially when not fed a diet based on nutritionally complete pellets.

What are some common health concerns for the Gray African?

Common health issues with the African Gray include vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium deficiencies, which you can address with supplements.

They are also prone to feather pecking, especially if they don’t get enough stimulation.

Gray Parrots appear to be susceptible to respiratory infections, psittacosis, and Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD).

Where to get an African Gray

Gray Parrots are native to the African savannah, coastal mangroves and the edges of forest clearings in West and Central Africa.

Because these birds are constantly threatened with extinction, trade in them is banned by the United Nations.

However, they are bred in captivity by responsible breeders and can be found in several locations outside of their natural habitat.

Gray Parrots are not typical of an everyday pet shop. Instead, you need to find a responsible Gray Parrot breeder or visit a specialist bird pet store.

You might also be lucky if you find an African gray parrot at a bird rescue or exotic bird sanctuary. In any case, make sure you do your research and find someone to be in charge of the adoption.

Conclusion

African gray parrots are best raised by experienced bird keepers, not novices. This is because they are highly intelligent and sensitive birds.

They also have the potential to be excellent communicators and charming companions, but can be difficult to manage if their needs for mental stimulation are not adequately met.

Sources

Home » How Long Can You Leave an African Gray Alone?

I love my time alone – probably a little too much.

There are few things in this world that are more comforting to me than a nice hot cup of tea watching the sun rise in complete silence.

That being said, I’m a relatively introverted person.

Parrots are not.

Parrots are social creatures and do not like being left alone for long periods of time.

Of course, each species of parrot is unique in its needs.

For this reason, today we are going to focus on one species of parrot – the gray parrot.

This brings us to the question – how long can you leave a gray parrot alone?

The answer to this question really varies from parrot to parrot. Just as we all have our own unique personalities as humans, so do our parrots. Some Gray Parrots can be left alone for up to 8 hours, while others require much more attention and can only be left alone for a few hours. It really comes down to getting to know your parrot and their unique individual needs.

That being said, there are some traits that are common to Gray Africans and the need for social interaction is one of them.

So if you work late hours or are away from home for an extended period of time, an African gray may not be the best choice for you.

Let’s delve a little deeper into the world of Gray Africans to learn how much social interaction they need, what you can do to make their alone time more enjoyable, and how a Gray African might react when left alone too long.

How much social interaction does a Gray African need?

In the wild, Gray Parrots are extremely social birds that gather in flocks.

The same is true if they are kept in captivity.

The difference is that in captivity, the African Gray doesn’t have their herd members around them – they have you.

When you own an African Gray Parrot, you become their best friend and source of entertainment.

And because the gray parrot is so sociable, it needs a lot of entertainment.

In order to keep your parrot well-adjusted and docile, it is important that it interacts with you for several hours each day.

This can mean your parrot coming out of its cage during your morning routine and coming out of its cage again when you get home from work.

Most owners keep their parrot outside from the time they get home until they go to bed.

The more interaction and attention you can give your parrot, the happier it will be.

Keep in mind that social interaction with the African Gray can be done in a variety of ways—watching TV together, having dinner together, or even showering together.

Parrots enjoy all forms of entertainment as long as they are with you.

Can I leave my gray parrot with someone else?

African Grays are extremely social birds, so you can leave them with other people for short periods of time.

However, keep in mind that gray parrots tend to be one-person birds.

In the wild, between the ages of 3 and 8, Gray Parrots will choose another bird as their lifelong mate.

This means they are a monogamous bird.

In captivity, they do not have the opportunity to choose a mate, but they do have the opportunity to choose a favorite human.

This person will be someone they will be associated with throughout their lives, and without interaction with this person, the parrot may become aggressive or depressed.

Therefore, they cannot be left alone without their owners for long periods of time.

Additionally, if you intend to leave your bird with others, it is important that you socialize it with other people from a young age.

If they choose you as their “favorite” before they’ve had a chance to interact with other people, they could become very aggressive towards people other than yourself.

How will a Gray African react if left alone for too long?

Leaving your Gray Parrot alone for too long could make him unhappy or stressed.

This can lead to the following behaviors:

Excessive biting

Biting is often seen by owners as a sign of aggression, but many people don’t realize that it can also be a sign of stress or anxiety.

If a bird suddenly starts biting, it might be stressed about your absence.

Excessive crying

Parrots make a lot of noise.

But any sudden increase in crying could be a sign your parrot is stressed.

It can also be a sign that your parrot is unhappy or bored.

If you notice they only scream when you leave the room, it could be a cry for attention.

This likely means you are leaving your parrot alone for too long.

Decreased vocalizations

Just as increased vocalizations can be a sign of stress for your parrot, so can decreased vocalizations.

If you notice your parrot speaking or vocalizing less than normal, it could be stressed or depressed.

If you’re absent for long periods of time throughout the day, this could be the cause.

pluck feather

When parrots are bored, it’s not uncommon for them to tug at their feathers.

If you notice feathers on the floor when you get home from work, it may be a sign that they’re not getting enough stimulation throughout the day.

mutilation

Feather picking isn’t the only form of self-mutilation parrots do when they’re unhappy or bored.

Stressed parrots can also chew on their own skin and in some cases even peck until they reach the bone.

If this is the case, your bird is severely stressed or ill and needs medical attention.

loss of appetite

Birds that are stressed or depressed often begin to lose their appetite.

If so, they may not get enough attention from you.

Other behaviors

When a Gray African is bored, they will often try to stimulate themselves mentally and physically by pacing, tapping their feet, or bobbing their head.

While these behaviors aren’t harmful, they can be a sign that your parrot isn’t having enough social interactions.

If left unattended, these harmless behaviors can quickly become destructive.

What can you do to keep your parrot entertained while you’re away?

Although your parrot would absolutely love it, you can’t spend all day with them every day.

So what can you do to minimize the chances of them getting bored or depressed while you’re away?

Give your Gray Parrot lots of attention while you are at home

That means spending some time with them before you go to work and spending time with them when you get home from work.

Give your parrot lots of mentally stimulating toys

Toys that your parrot has to “work” on are the best way to keep them stimulated throughout the day while you’re away.

Remember that Gray Parrots are extremely intelligent and can solve puzzles quickly, so it’s important to change up their toys regularly to avoid boredom.

Turn on the music or the TV when you’re away

You can leave the TV or radio on to entertain your feathered friend while you’re out and about.

Outside

Place their cage near a window so they can see what’s going on outside

Can I cage my Gray Parrot for social interaction with another bird?

The answer to this question is that sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.

If two African Grays are raised together as babies, they will likely do just fine together in the same cage.

But just like humans, not all Gray Africans get along with one another.

Some become friends while others fight like cats and dogs.

In other words, some personalities just don’t match.

The best way to find out is to keep your two parrots close together in separate cages.

If you find that they are attracted to each other, chances are they will do just fine together in the same cage.

If they often fight, it would not be a good idea to put them in the same cage.

In summary, African Grays are extremely social birds that require a lot of attention.

If you don’t have a lot of free time, the gray parrot might not be the best pet for you.

They require several hours of interaction each day and cannot be left alone for long periods without becoming stressed or depressed.

And remember, Gray Africans aren’t a 10-year commitment – they’re a lifetime commitment.

The Gray African bonds closely with a person and becomes depressed when that person is suddenly gone.

So if you don’t have 3-4 hours every day for the next 60 years, you might want to consider a pet other than the gray parrot.

Home » What is the Cheapest Talking Parrot? (Experience!)

When it comes to pets, few can compare to the company that a parrot provides.

Aside from being an incredibly affectionate and intelligent friend, no other pet can actually communicate with us like parrots.

If you are considering buying a parrot, it would make sense to have one that can do what no other pet can; talk.

There’s a common myth that all parrots can talk, and that’s just not true.

Most parrots have the ability to speak, and indeed many parrots do speak, but some will never speak.

The answer to that question, “What’s the cheapest talking parrot?” is a budgerigar, or budgerigar, as it may be called. There are many other species of parrots that are also fairly cheap, but a budgie is the cheapest.

This article looks at talking parrot prices, but it’s important to remember that many factors can affect the cost of an individual bird and the numbers here represent an average range.

Things that affect the price of a talking parrot include age, health, and the rarity of the bird.

All of this affects the cost of a parrot.

In some cases, prices can range from very cheap to incredibly expensive.

A private seller will have a higher price but will make sure you know about the health of the parrot you are buying.

With all of that in mind, let’s dive in!

Generic budgie/parakeet $15-100 Australian king parrot $100-500 Flower-headed parakeet $600-90 African ring-necked parakeet $200 Derbyan parakeet $1500 Cockatiel $50-150 Parrotlet $150-600 Indian ringneck $175-250 Cockatoo $2000 $804.50 Monk parakeet $ African Gray Parrot – $3600 Yellow-crowned Amazon $1000 Blue-fronted Amazon $1500 – $2500 Macaw $700 – $1000 Yellow-naped Amazon $1200 – $2500 Eclectus $1500 Double Yellow-headed Amazon $1500 – $3000

The Budgie

The budgerigar is the cheapest talking parrot in the world.

These little parrots are the perfect choice for those of us who want a talking parrot but are on a budget.

This little bird is actually capable of a lot of talking and can learn a large number of phrases and songs to talk to you.

Budgies tend to have quiet and not always defined voices, so although they do speak, they are harder to understand.

Also, the males tend to speak better than the females.

Most budgies sell for around $15.00 to $100.00.

Budgies are also called parakeets.

There are many different types of parakeets, all available at different prices, and most can talk.

The Australian king parrot

The Australian king parrot takes a lot of dedication to training and teaching it to speak, but with work it can learn.

Prices vary from $100 to $500.

The flower-headed parakeet

The Flower-headed Parakeet is an extremely rare bird, which is why it is not often kept as a pet, but it can speak very well.

Because of their rarity, these birds can cost anywhere from $600 to $900.

The African Ring-necked Parakeet

The African Ringneck Parakeet needs training at an early age to learn to speak, but with your patience they will learn.

They often cost around $200.

The Derbyan Parakeet

The Derbyan Parakeet is known for its excellent language skills, which are often compared to those of Amazon parrots, but they don’t have a large vocabulary.

They often sell for the high price of around $1,500.

cockatiel

The cockatiel is another great option for those of us who don’t have a huge budget to spend on buying a parrot.

Like a budgie, cockatiels can talk.

However, their vocabulary is generally not as extensive as that of other parrots and their ability to speak full sentences is very limited.

They are often taught to say a few words or phrases like “hello”, “nice bird” or “I’m a good bird”, etc.

But cockatiels are very social birds, and to stay tame they need regular interaction, which also helps their ability to talk.

Cockatiels sell for around $50 to $150.

Parrot

Parrots are the smallest of all captive bred parrots and the name actually means “little parrot”.

Parrots often measure less than five inches from crest to tail as adults and weigh only 30 grams or less.

As with most parrots, parrotlet males are known to be better at speaking than females, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn!

With time, patience, and your dedication, you may hear your bird repeating a few words or phrases.

Parrot prices range from $150 to $400 depending on plumage color.

They can go as high as $600 depending on demand and the rarity of the color.

Indian ring neck

The Indian Ringneck is an accomplished speaker known for speaking clearly in full sentences and using a large vocabulary.

The Indian Ringneck is a very smart little bird.

In fact, Indian ringnecks can develop a large vocabulary and speak to you in clear sentences.

Rather than mimicking the pitch of a human voice like many other parrots do, the Indian ringneck often speaks in its own bird calls.

Indian ringnecks can range in price from $175 to $250 and up to $1,200 for a rarer species or color.

In this species, females often cost 20 to 30 percent less than males.

cockatoo

The cockatoo is a large parrot that can talk, but often requires persuasion, patience, and training.

They tend to have soft, sweet voices compared to other parrots.

The average price you can spend on a cockatoo is $2,000, but that number can range from $1,000 to $23,000 depending on the cost of the subspecies.

Monk Parakeet

The monk parakeet is also known as the Quaker parakeet.

Incredibly colorful, this little bird is actually known to be very smart, social and develop a very large vocabulary.

Monk Parakeets range in price from $450 to $700.

African Gray

You may be shocked to find out that the Einstein of the Parrots isn’t the most expensive parrot money can buy.

The gray parrot is widely considered to be the smartest of all talking parrots.

In fact, they are considered to be one of the most intelligent birds in the animal kingdom.

Extensive tests have shown that the Gray African’s ability to speak can actually correspond to the level of a human toddler.

Gray Parrots range in price from $800.00 to $3,600.00.

The reason for this higher price is that the process of gaining legal ownership of these parrots is expensive.

Unfortunately, the Grays are becoming increasingly rare due to poaching and loss of their natural habitat.

Yellow Crowned Amazon

The Yellow-headed Amazon is considered almost as good as the Yellow-naped Parrot and is less prone to munching, making them easier pets.

They have been known to have moments when they speak very clearly and very loudly!

The Yellow-Crowned Amazon costs $1,000 or more.

Blue-fronted Amazon

The Blue-fronted Amazon has a remarkable ability to mimic human voices and has strong speaking voices of their own.

That’s not the most incredible thing about these birds, the Blue-fronted Amazon can live up to 100 years or more.

The Blue Fronted Amazon costs between $1,500.00 and $2,500.00.

Era

The macaw is known for its bright colors and even brighter personalities, which it often expresses with impressive mimicry of human speech.

They have been known to learn up to 100 different words.

The macaw can cost different prices depending on the breed, but on average the range is $700 to $1,000, but this can rise to $15,000 for a blue and golden macaw.

Yellow-naped Amazon

The Yellow-naped Amazon is the most famous Amazon parrot for its incredible speaking abilities.

The Yellow-naped Amazon is highly intelligent and loves to sing.

They are also notorious for their uncanny ability to mimic human speech and cadence, and will mimic you with an ability that will make you think you just spoke.

The Yellow Naped Amazon can be purchased for $1,200.00 to $2,500.00

eclectus

The Electus parrot is known for its ability to verbalize clearly and to mimic the tone and mood of speech, as well as its color differentiation between the sexes, as the male is green and the female is bright red.

The Electus’ speaking skills depend entirely on training from an early age and will require some dedication on your part to teach them.

The average Eclectus can be purchased for $1,500.00. However, the very rare Blue Solomon Island goes for up to $20,000.00.

Double Yellow Headed Amazons

The most expensive of the talking parrots is the Double Yellow Headed Amazon, which has an excellent ability to mimic human voices and speech and has a penchant for singing.

The Double Yellow Headed Amazon retails for $1,500.00 to $3,000.00.

Speech and mimicry are not guaranteed for any parrot, although it is more likely in certain species such as the gray parrot.

Talking is also more likely to be seen in the males of all parrot species.

However, there is one thing you can do to encourage their language, which is the more individual time you spend with your bird, especially when they are young, the more likely they are to pick up human words.

Parrots are one of the most popular pets in the UK.

However, the legal challenges that prospective owners face can be confusing. The rules also vary depending on where you live. So can you own a parrot in the UK without a license?

Parrot ownership is legal in the UK. You can buy common species without a license or paperwork, like budgies and cockatiels.

However, several parrot species are on the CITES list, such as the gray parrot. To own these parrots you need an Article 10 certificate for commercial use, which you can obtain through the government.

If you fail to apply for the appropriate documentation, you risk unlimited fines and imprisonment. Check if your parrot is on the CITES list before handing over any cash.

Is it legal to own a parrot in the UK?

As previously mentioned, UK citizens from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can legally own a parrot and in many cases without a licence.

However, there are limitations to this rule. While some of the more common parrots are readily and unrestrictedly available for purchase from pet stores, some parrot species require certification as proof of ownership.

In particular, the UK government does not allow its citizens to own a wild bird, its eggs or its nest unless they can prove that it was legally captured or killed. These include some of the rarer parrot species. Under British law, ‘legally taken’ means that the parrot:

Licensed

Unfit to be released into the wild

Found dead or accidentally killed

When it comes to wild animals, the UK government states that citizens can own one as long as it:

Was bred in captivity

Taken from the wild outside of the UK or any country in the European Union

Taken from the wild before June 10, 1994

An exempt species listed in the EC Habitats Directive

A European protected species taken legally before October 31, 1981

This means that as long as UK citizens purchase a parrot from a reputable source that acquired or bred the bird through legal means, they can legally own the parrot without a license, certificates or paperwork.

You should always check if your chosen species requires these things before committing to purchase or you could get into trouble.

Parrots you need a license for in the UK

While UK citizens can own certain parrots, several species appear on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) list. This list documents the most endangered parrot species, where trade is controlled to maintain wild populations.

Prospective owners need special paperwork known as a CITES Article 10 Certificate for Commercial Use to own one of these parrots. This certificate is required for the following scenarios:

purchase

sale

Exhibition of a bird in a pet shop

Exhibition of a bird in a collection open to the public

Use of the bird in an animal encounter with the public

Use of the bird during a bird show

Breed the bird and sell the offspring

There are two types of Article 10 certificates:

The Transaction Specific Certificate (TSC) valid for a sale and showing that the bird was legally acquired

A Specimen Specific Certificate (SS) that accompanies the bird for the rest of its life

Similarly, most birds require either:

A uniquely numbered, seamlessly closed ring for birds

an ISO compliant, uniquely numbered microchip

If you don’t have a valid certificate or permit and own a CITES-controlled species, you can face an indefinite fine, seven years in prison, or both. The following parrot species are on the list:

Amazon Parrots

Amazon parrots are popular for their intelligence and vibrant color variations. They come from parts of Mexico, South America and the Caribbean, where they live in rainforests, scrub forests, savannas and palm groves.

Unfortunately, many Amazon parrot species are on the CITES list because they are routinely captured from the wild for the pet trade. As a result, they are threatened and their numbers have declined in recent years. The following Amazon species require certification:

Yellow neck

yellow-shouldered

Crowned purple

Saint Vincent

Imperial

Cuban

yellow headed

Saint Lucia

Vinous

Capturing wild Amazon parrots is now illegal, which is why they are so hard to come by in captivity.

macaws

Macaws are another parrot species that is endangered in the wild. In the early 20th century, large quantities were exported to the US and Europe, causing their numbers to decline rapidly.

Most macaws are now endangered or endangered due to logging, illegal trapping for the pet trade, and hunting. You need a certificate to own or sell any of these macaws:

hyacinth

buffons

bluethroat

scarlet

military

red forehead

blue headed

Many macaws thrive in captivity and it is not too difficult to get hold of young birds. However, conservation efforts are still underway to increase their numbers.

cockatoos

Although cockatoos are one of the most popular parrot species, they are not immune to the effects of the illegal pet trade. As a result, their numbers have declined sharply in recent years.

Unfortunately, there are only 3,000 individual cockatoos left in the wild. Unfortunately, captive breeding does not help increase their numbers in the wild. That’s because captive bred birds could never be released into the wild due to the disease risk to wild populations. CITES therefore protects the following cockatoo species:

Goffins

Moluccas

Less sulphur-crested

Palm tree

You will find that you have to pay around $2,000 to $4,000 to buy a cockatoo as a pet because their numbers are so small now.

African gray parrots

You may be wondering, “Are gray parrots legal in the UK?” Their ownership is not illegal, but they are one of the latest additions to the CITES Appendix I list. That’s because the way the International Journal of Avian Science states has experienced rapid population decline in recent years due to:

Felling large trees where they live

Traps for the illegal pet trade

There are two species of African gray parrots – the Congo and the Timneh. The CITES list protects both. They average about $1,500 to $3,000, making them one of the more expensive parrot breeds.

parakeets

There are only a few conure species that are on the CITES list, including:

Golden

bluethroat

Because of the restrictions on these species, you should consider choosing a parakeet that is less endangered and more common in captivity.

Red-blue lory

Unfortunately, the red-and-blue lory is listed as Vulnerable and is now restricted to a single island in Indonesia’s Talaud Islands. The population is rapidly declining, which is why it appears on the CITES Appendix 1 list. You can’t find them legally in captivity anywhere in the world – let alone the UK.

Where can I buy a parrot in the UK?

You must buy a parrot from a reputable UK breeder or shop. It is illegal to capture and keep a wild bird, so make sure you do your due diligence before handing over any money.

You are more likely to find a parrot from a specific breeder as they are less commonly kept in pet shops in the UK due to the negative publicity they have faced for storing and selling live birds in the past.

If you’re buying a parrot, make sure you ask questions about the parrots:

Age

parents

Health

personality and temperament

You want to buy a healthy bird, so be sure to ask for evidence of any hereditary diseases your parrot might inherit.

Where can I buy parrot eggs in the UK?

Owning wild eggs is illegal in the UK and many other countries. However, a cheaper way to buy parrots is to buy eggs from captive birds in hopes they hatch. While you can physically buy parrot eggs, it is frowned upon. Hatching is also risky. There are many things to consider, such as:

The eggs cannot hatch at all

The probability of chick mortality is high

Hand rearing newly hatched chicks is difficult and time consuming

Do you need special equipment such as B. Incubators

Long-term care costs are rising rapidly

You can buy eggs from reputable parrot breeders. However, only experienced owners should attempt to hatch and hatch parrot eggs. The chicks require constant care, and the probability of mortality is high.

Are Quaker parrots legal in the UK?

Quaker Parrots are an intelligent species that make excellent pets. Interestingly, however, they are banned in several states in the US because they are considered pests and a nuisance where they nest. There are no such restrictions in Britain, but they were once culled to reduce the feral populations found in Britain.

Are budgies legal in the UK?

Budgie ownership is legal in the UK. Budgies are one of the few parrot species that are not on the CITES list. They are the country’s most popular companion birds. Not only are they cheap and small, fitting into UK homes which are typically smaller than in other countries, but they are intelligent and affectionate birds.

Are Cockatiels Legal in the UK?

Cockatiels are another popular parrot species in the UK. Along with budgies, they are not on the CITES list, so there are no specific requirements to own one.

Before you decide to get a pet parrot in the UK, you should do your research to make sure there aren’t any restrictions that could get you in trouble. As long as you get the right paperwork, you shouldn’t have any problems.

During our 20 years together, my Graua has taught me many things about life and housing, and she has brought me tremendous joy. In turn, I have learned a lot about the care and housing of these magnificent parrots, not only as an owner but also as an avian veterinarian.

Gray Parrots have environmental and developmental needs that are often misunderstood by their owners. If left untreated, behavioral and physical problems can appear either early or much later in life. These problems include aggression, excessive and unexpected anxiety, and feather chewing. Here are some tips to instill confidence and confidence in your African Gray.

Don’t drop African grays

A bad fall is, in my opinion, one of the most important pieces of the puzzle that contributes to why grays develop so many problems. African Grays are powerful birds and when they fall they often hit the edge of the sternum and land hard on their legs. This compresses their chest, forcing air out of their lungs. The force drives up into the shoulders and hips, creating pain.

They sometimes flap their (often over-trimmed) wing feathers and flap their wings against things as they descend. Injuries, such as splitting the skin over the sternum or tearing the skin under the tail, can be common consequences of a fall. Young grays often start destroying their feathers in the same areas, suggesting that this may be related to impact damage.

When your African Gray is hurt and frightened, it may associate these negative aspects with its owner. A fearful Gray Parrot may start biting or become aggressive. It can also harm itself further by attempting to fly away from whatever is frightening it, likely falling again. This is a self-perpetuating cycle that, if left unaddressed, can severely affect your relationship with your horror.

Allow African gray parrots to fly

An important step towards a well-adapted gray parrot is to let it “flap its wings”, so to speak. If you have a young gray horse, do not have his wing feathers clipped just yet. Wait for it to start learning to fly (i.e. when it can take off and land smoothly and perform basic maneuvers like turning and landing at its destination).

Once your African Gray has mastered basic flight, consider a light wing feather trim. Slight trimming generally refers to trimming the outer five flight feathers to about half their length. With this type of trimming, your gray should be able to take off but not gain height. As the bird grows and gains strength, further trimming may be necessary even if there is no further feather growth.

Sometimes a Gray Parrot’s feathers will be trimmed all at once by the groomer or vet, so don’t hesitate to ask for a very mild trim and come back more often for “maintenance” trims. The goal of any wing feather trimming is to allow the bird to gently descend in a controlled downward glide for a distance of 7 to 10 feet.

Sometimes a cut is made in a way that leaves sharp ends on the feather that rub and irritate the bird’s side. The bird often responds to this irritation by either chewing on the feathers of the wings or under the wings, which can lead to further feather chewing. Ask the person trimming your bird’s feathers to leave the outer edges of the feathers slightly longer so they lie flat against the bird’s flank.

If your African Gray has had a recent wing feather trimming, be sure to check the wing tips regularly for signs of chewing. The tips will appear shredded and tattered, much like the fiber of a broomstick. These ragged edges can cause further problems as the bird attempts to “soften up” or eliminate the rough edges, creating more rough edges.

If your gray starts chewing on his feathers in this way, take him to your avian veterinarian as soon as possible so those tattered feathers can be trimmed before they get worse. When the feathers are shredded, the bird is drawn to the spot and shreds more; This can develop to the base of the feather, which can cause the feather to break under the skin and cause infection and pain. This can also lead to further feather destruction and feather pecking.

Claws and perches for gray parrots

Nature has given Gray Parrots (like many African parrots) very sharp, needle-like claws. Grays climb a lot in the wild, and they use these nails to dig into wood to keep them safe while they forage and spend time with the herd.

It hurts an owner when these needle-like nails dig into the skin, leaving scratches or painful sores. Many people have their gray rooster’s nails trimmed and, as often happens, the nails are so dull that the bird cannot hold onto a perch. The bird may become more clumsy and nervous because it cannot move without slipping. As a result, the bird might be unsure and bite something (finger, arm, etc.) to steady itself. This nervousness can develop into anxiety biting and panic attacks.

Have a gray horse’s claws trimmed so that the bird can sit securely and won’t bother you when the bird is sitting on your hand. Also look for bird perches that will allow your gray horse’s foot to almost completely circumnavigate it (but not quite), and vary the type and texture of perches you give your gray. Natural branches are particularly good, as are textured perches, such as concrete or sand perches (watch out for foot irritation). Keep in mind that smooth-barked perch, like manzanita, can increase perch slipperiness and the gray could fall off.

Place the perches a little lower in the cage in case the bird falls off, at least while the gray horse is very young. As the bird perfects its climbing skills, you can raise the perches.

A no-go for almost every parrot, especially young Grays, is being on a person’s shoulder. Think of your shoulder as a wide and slippery bar that can make a gray feel unstable and cause the bird to fall. Have your gray sit on your hand with the elbow lower than the hand to prevent the bird from climbing onto your shoulder. Or place your gray on your lap or thigh while seated.

African grays might feel vulnerable

Many African Grays seem scared; They frequently chew their nails, flap their wings, bob their heads as if looking for somewhere to turn, and seem unable to sit still. Videos of wild Gray Parrots show cautious birds with a very strong instinct to flee. Gray Parrots in the wild usually forage for food in the branches of trees hidden in dense foliage. They are seldom out in a clearing and are then on high alert.

In the home, an owner might place their Gray Parrot’s cage next to a window, thinking that the bird wants to look out and see everything. Although some Grays seem to be at home with it, other Grays seem to feel particularly vulnerable and exposed in this type of residence (like a person might feel living in a department store window).

Move the cage around so the gray can either look outside or hide from what they think is possible. Some birds respond well to a visual barrier over some part of the cage (like a blanket or towel) so they can hide there if they choose. You can also arrange a row of hanging bird toys in front of a perch at the back of the cage to give your gray a little hiding place. This is a way of providing a sense of visual safety as the hanging toys create a veil for the bird to perch behind.

There are a few things you can do to help your gray relax. First, be calm. If you are concerned about anything (including fear that your gray is afraid!) that fear can be taken as a signal to your bird that something is wrong in the flock, which can allow the fear to continue. Second, reduce activity around the cage. Place the cage where the gray will not be exposed to constant loud noises or children and other pets running by. Provide your horror with a hiding place and ask guests to slowly move around the bird. Third and most important, whisper in soft tones. I find that soft whispers and clicks and murmurs seem to lower anxiety energy levels in all (including youthful) grays.

Width over height for gray parrots

Many of the gray parrots that I have seen in my practice with behavioral problems and feather destruction are housed in very high cages. It’s a long way down when the bird falls into the cage and this can lead to some of the problems discussed. Some birds are often allowed onto the cage and when frightened, curious or wanting to look for their owner they will jump off to fly. If they have overtrimmed wing feathers, they will fall, sometimes hitting the corner of furniture on their way to hard ground.

Bird cages that are shorter but very wide and deep are the best type of cage for an African gray bird. If the bird falls in this way, it reduces the chance of serious injury.

Keep your bird off the top of the cage to avoid falling. Instead, place it on a game stand that’s closer to the ground. Also, interact with your bird while sitting on the ground.

Nail Biting & African Grays

I believe that shifted toenail chewing behavior (instead of nails, the bird bites its feathers) is a possible cause of feather-picking grays. It is not known why Gray Parrots appear to be more prone to these behaviors, but as we learn more about the habits of wild Gray Parrots, there is likely an element of socialization that we do not provide them with in our homes and aviaries.

Feather cleanliness for gray parrots

Gray parrots use their powder down and preening glands to keep their feathers neat and soft. Due to frequent exposure to water in their natural habitat, a gray roan’s feathers are often wet. But in our homes, excess dirt and oils can accumulate on the feathers, either due to insufficient bathing with pure water, exposure to excessive oil from our hands, or a high-fat diet.

Bathe your gray frequently with clean water. Distilled water is sometimes required depending on how much dissolved matter and chlorine is in your tap water. Talk to your vet about the best water choices for your bird.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your gray bird or any other bird. This ensures that the oils from our skin glands, pathogens, or items such as lotions or hand creams are not transferred to our birds’ feathers.

Speak African Gray

African Grays are known for their ability to vocalize in our language and especially in context. However, I find that many Grays have their own language, as many Grays I’ve met use multiple sounds.

I’ve seen grays make clicks and “claps” of their own accord when they see a food they like. They respond, especially when anxious, to very low whispers, especially when there are lots of “ssss” and low, hissing sounds. These are sounds that bonded couples use together during quiet, private times.

When I first meet Gray Africans in the exam room, I use these soft, whispering clicks and “shoos” to introduce myself. I find that most of them relax to these sounds and are easier to manage for my medical care as they appear less anxious and stressed.

From: Dr. Vanessa Rolfe

Featured image: shrutebucks/iStock/ThinkStocks

General information

Native to central Africa, the gray parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is a highly intelligent bird that is now commonly bred in captivity as a pet. This elegant, medium-sized bird is all gray with a striking red, short, blunt tail. The gray parrot has a charming personality and is considered one of the best talkers of all pet parrots. With this extraordinary ability to imitate, some Gray Africans develop an extensive vocabulary of words, songs, verses, whistles, sneezes, coughs, and electronic noises such as telephones and microwave ovens. Some individuals, particularly when dealing with older, wild-caught birds or who have not been properly socialized, may have unacceptable vocalizations, often loud. The sound a frightened, defensive, or timid African Gray makes is a distinctive loud growl.

“African Grays bond easily, often with a family member or specifically with males or females.”

Gray Parrots bond easily, often with a family member or specifically with males or females. This one-to-one bond can occasionally lead to aggression toward others. These handsome, good-natured birds make excellent companions and pets for people who have time to spend with these very social creatures. With frequent handling, Gray Parrots are generally interactive and affectionate. They will often insistently solicit pats and head scratches. Gray parrots are very playful and like to climb and chew. It’s important to keep these intelligent birds occupied, as boredom can lead to problems like feather pecking and yelling. Providing non-toxic, commercially available wooden branches sold at most pet stores, along with other parrot-safe toys that encourage chewing, will provide this curious pet with many hours of entertainment and exercise.

There are two types of African gray parrots: the large gray Congo African gray with a bright red tail and the smaller, darker gray colored Timneh African gray with a chestnut tail.

Procurement of an African gray parrot

Grays can be purchased from pet stores, reputable breeders, or adopted from numerous rescue organizations. Young birds may be easier to tame, train and adapt to new environments and situations than older, wild, colony or parent-reared birds, as the latter may prove more difficult to tame. Hand-reared babies often make better pets because they have been fully socialized with humans. New birds should be exposed to various events early on (young and old people, males and females, other pets, car trips, visits to the vet, etc.) to foster a calm, well-adjusted pet. All new birds should be examined by a veterinarian familiar with birds.

“Hand-reared babies are often better pets because they’ve been fully socialized with humans.”

Veterinary care

African Gray Parrots require regular veterinary check-ups. Your vet should perform a physical exam, grooming (nail or feather clipping if necessary), and lab tests as needed. Health, nutritional and behavioral problems can be identified and addressed at these six-monthly check-ups. Veterinary exams help prevent disease and help maintain a long-lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird.

Appearance, size, lifespan, diet, reproduction and cage requirements

colour

tires

In the more common African Gray Parrot, the body feathers are light gray, the wing feathers are dark gray, and the tail feathers are red.

The iris (eye) is light yellow.

The legs are gray, the feet are featherless, and both are covered in slightly bumpy skin.

Immature

The tail feathers are dark red towards the tips.

The iris is grey.

The legs are dark gray, the feet are featherless, and both are covered in smooth skin.

intercourse

In general, there are no reliable external sex differences. Experienced breeders can see slight differences in size and color between the sexes of their own breeding birds, but this is very subjective and not a reliable way of determining sex. With a genetic test on a drop of blood, the gender can be determined unequivocally.

Weight: Average 12 – 19 ounces (350 – 550 grams).

Size: Average 13.5 inches (33 cm) long.

Lifespan: 20 – 35 years on average (generally no more than 65 years in captivity).

Diet: Consult your veterinarian or consult the fact sheet: African Gray Parrot – Feeding

Breeding: sexual maturity at -three to six years. Prolific breeders require plenty of space and males and females kept together should be carefully monitored as some males can become quite aggressive during the breeding season.

Brood Size: Two to four eggs hatch in 17 – 31 days. Young leave the nest in nine to ten weeks. Single females can lay unfertilized eggs for life after sexual maturity.

Cage: At least 60cm x 90cm x 120cm (2ft x 3ft x 4ft) long. The bar spacing should be close enough so that your head and feet do not get caught between the bars. The larger the cage space, the better for the bird.

Guo Ya Hui/EyeEm/Getty Images

African gray parrots have a reputation for being some of the best talking birds. What’s going on behind the scenes can cause a problem. Although these birds are not known for being loud screamers, they do tend to chatter throughout the day. And they can be very loud if they want to. As highly intelligent birds, they need lots of play and socialization to keep them entertained. Otherwise, they might vocalize out of boredom.

One of the most intelligent birds ever studied, the gray parrot has an amazing ability to imitate speech. They can be wonderful and affectionate, but like other large parrots, African Grays are considered high maintenance pets. While “greys” are fun and rewarding to keep, they prefer a routine schedule and require plenty of time with their owners. As such, African Grays may not be appropriate for those who work infrequently, travel frequently, or spend long hours away from home.

Biological Facts

gray parrot (Psittacus erithacus); two subspecies Kongo: larger body, light gray coloring, all black bill and bright red tail feathers Timneh: smaller body, dark gray coloring, flesh colored upper half of bill and dark brown tail feathers

Weight: 330-500g

Juveniles have dark gray irises that turn pale yellow by the age of 1 year

Sexual maturity: 4-6 years

avg Lifespan: 25-30 years

Maximum recorded lifetime: 50+ years

Origin: West and Central Africa

behavior

Often bonds with one family member and rejects others.

Often fearful or intolerant of strangers.

African gray chicks raised by parents are considered better adapted than those raised entirely by humans. Baby birds that are handled by humans while still in the nest tend to exhibit fewer behavioral problems (e.g., feather pecking, fearfulness, aggression) at maturity than those that are not.

Domesticated birds adapt easily to new environments and activities; Expose yourself early to daily activities in your household as well as other pets

Are intelligent, curious and love to explore their surroundings.

Need environment enrichment, interesting toys and foraging practice to reduce the likelihood of behavior problems.

diet

Wild African gray parrots feed on a variety of fruits, nuts, and vegetables.

Seed-based diets are not recommended as they allow pet birds to choose an unbalanced diet from the supply.

Formulated diets (“pellets” or “crumbles”) provide a more complete and balanced diet, do not allow for selective feeding, and should make up about 75% of the diet

Dark leafy greens, greens, and fruits can make up 20-25% of the diet

Treats should be limited to only 5% of the diet

Clean, fresh water should be provided daily

Surroundings

The enclosures should be as large as possible to allow the bird to fully extend its wings and wings without touching the cage walls

The cage should be clean, safe and secure, and made of durable, non-toxic materials

Perches should have a variety of widths, heights, and textures. Also provide a concrete bar to groom the toenails.

Avoid placing perches directly over food or water to avoid contamination

Access to natural light is preferred, and supplemental UV light may be recommended to treat or prevent feather pecking or hypocalcemia.

Avoid drafty areas.

Parrots should be kept in their cage or a “bird-proof” room unless they are under direct supervision.

Birds with unrestricted access to the home are at risk from accidents such as toxin ingestion, electrocution, pet attacks, and drowning.

prevention

Physical exams every 6-12 months Consult a veterinarian experienced in avian medicine if you have any questions or concerns about your bird’s health.

Annual stool examination for parasites, yeast and bacteria

Vaccination against polyomavirus as directed by your veterinarian

Routine blood tests

Wings, nail trimming as needed

Common medical disorders

Is your parrot insured? Get a quote for up to £5,000 on Vet Expense Cover, Death & Theft Cover | We have been insuring exotic pets since 1996 | Check out our customer reviews on Feefo.

What Sleeping Pattern Is Right For Your Bird? By and large, most parrots are tropical animals. In the tropics, day and night are each 12 hours long. Twilight lasts only a few minutes.

Jump to: How Long Do Parrots Sleep? | Adjusting Your Parrot’s Sleep Rhythm | Where should your parrot sleep? | Should you sleep with your parrot? | Sleeping Positions of Parrots | Light Cycles and Reproductive Behavior | Too much sleep and sleep deprivation

The sleep pattern of a wild parrot is that they go to the roost just before sunset and wake up at dawn. That means they have a 24-hour cycle of sleeping 12 hours and awake 12 hours.

Some species live further away from equatorial regions and even less in temperate areas. Parrots that live farther from the equator have slightly different habits, sleeping longer in the winter months and shorter in the summer months.

Australian parrots can successfully live in a wide range of temperatures and can therefore be an example of both sleep cycles.

Following the example of parrots from the tropics, a period of 12 hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. is closest to nature.

As a pet parrot owner, this may not suit your lifestyle when the evening is the best time to interact with your parrot. However, parrot sleep patterns can be altered.

How Long Do Parrots Sleep?

African Grays, Macaws, Cockatoos, Alexandrines, Amazons, Eclectus, Caiques, Senegal, Cape, Quaker, Ringneck and Red-bellied Parrots may need a 12 hour day/night cycle as they are tropical natives.

Species from one of the more temperate regions or non-tropical areas like the kea, Australian parakeets and ringnecks that have adapted to a temperate zone may need 10 hours of light and 14 hours of darkness during the winter months.

This is the opposite of 14 hours of light and 10 hours of darkness in summer.

And of course young birds need more sleep.

This means that depending on the species, keepers may need to adjust how much light the parrots receive.

says Don Harris, DVM, an avian veterinarian in Florida. “The farther their home range is from the equator, the more significant seasonal changes will be.”

However, following tropical dawn to dusk for our parrots will not suit all of us.

Many bird keepers work all day and only come home in the late afternoon/early evening.

It’s already dark in the tropics. And in other parts of the world, the days grow shorter as winter descends.

So if you follow a tropical sunset to sunrise schedule, you won’t have time to interact with your birds.

You can adjust your parrot’s sleep cycle to fit your lifestyle, as long as it still fits the appropriate number of hours.

Is your parrot insured? Get a quote for up to £5,000 on Vet Expense Cover, Death & Theft Cover | We have been insuring exotic pets since 1996 | Check out our customer reviews on Feefo.

How can you adjust your parrot’s sleep schedule?

You can keep your birds out of their cages or keep in touch with you in the evenings. But then don’t expect them to get up very early in the morning.

You can cover the cage for 10 to 12 hours. Even if the sun rises early, a parrot can still sleep in a dark, quiet room with curtains.

Is it a bad way to interact with a bird after it’s been put to bed? There is no clear yes or no. To quote Susan Friedman, “Each bird is a study of one.”

A certain parrot can wake up and play with you. Others don’t. They are clearly sleepy and if you wake them up you may find them grumpy and upset the next day.

Individual parrots, while largely conforming to their species profile, can and do show differences in their responses in our homes.

Here are some anecdotes from my herd

Artha my first gray always liked to have contact with people, myself or my husband Wal at any time.

In the evenings she calmed down, sat on my knee and fell asleep with her eyes closed while I watched TV or read.

Casper, the second grey, showed a different pattern early on. Back then, the grays lived in the conservatory but came into the living room to play with us.

At 8 p.m., young Casper took off as if wearing a wristwatch and quickly flew from the living room back to the conservatory and into bed. His cage door was left open and he slept in a small cardboard box.

Now he is an adult bird who sits on my knee at 10 p.m., often tucks one leg up, closes his eyes and falls asleep. It always feels like an honor when a bird agrees to sleep on you.

Years later, when Benny’s Macaw joined the flock and was hand-fed for a few months, I used to put him in his cage at 6:00 p.m. If I didn’t, he would act like a sleep-deprived toddler and get bubbly.

My two macaws, Mina a Military Macaw and Benni, are now 3 and 6 years old and have responded differently to the same treatment.

Put to bed at 6pm as teenagers, they now enjoy playtime in the living room most evenings – quite boisterous play at that.

At 9pm they stop playing and sit on the ceiling ropes and doze. When I’m ready for bed, they both get up and sleep in the bird room. None of them have ever fallen asleep on my knees or shoulder.

Where should parrots sleep?

There are several changes to try.

Sleeping Cage: A popular one is a sleeping cage. A smaller cage that is simply used to put the bird to bed.

To be effective, a sleeping cage must be placed in a separate room where family activities take place, such as family activities. B. a quiet and dark room, a guest room or a laundry room.

A lively friend of mine with a noisy social life and a small apartment keeps her two lovebirds in a walk-in closet.

Many caregivers report that their bird reminds them of “night-night” when they are ready to go to sleep.

It is good practice to keep the waking parrot in the room where most of the family interactions take place. Just as good practice is to take it to a quiet and dark place at bedtime.

Cage Cover: A cage cover is useful when there is no suitable place for the bird to sleep in the dark, especially when you need to keep your bird in a room where the light is on until late at night. You can buy cage covers from Northern Parrots.

However, these are a matter of choice. I use them sparingly. When a bird is unwell or a young bird needs more sleep than other birds in the area.

Sometimes a new bird is nervous and the cage cover can calm it down. Other Companion owners commonly use them.

There is no clear evidence that using a cover prevents or promotes night terrors.

For some birds, like cockatiels, total darkness can cause problems with night terrors, and it may be necessary to leave part of their cages uncovered and plug in a night light so they can see.

My avoidance of cover is based on the fact that wild birds are not in total darkness most of the night.

Should you sleep with your parrot?

Some owners have let their parrot sleep in their bed. I would strongly advise against the practice in case you roll over at night. You probably won’t, but why risk it?

And yes – an anecdote. I was told about a Jardine parrot that was crushed flat. He recovered, but I still wouldn’t encourage sleeping with your bird.

Some caregivers take the sleeping cage to their room. This is fine if you don’t have any allergies to powder down.

Sleeping Positions of Parrots

Stand up: The parrot will tuck one foot into its body feathers. The tendon in the other leg closes around the branch to keep the bird from falling off the perch. The one-legged bird is stable.

Tucking your head in the feathers: The second most common move is to turn your head and tuck it into the neck feathers.

Reasons for this can be that both the head and the drawn leg receive heat, and the muscles in the drawn leg are relieved. The sleeping bird conserves body heat.

Birds use their feathers to generate heat and regulate body temperature. Most parrots have bare legs and feet that are not covered with insulating feathers. I’ve been wondering why parrot legs don’t show their age with more wrinkles.

Sleeping Habits of Parrots

Parrots that talk or sing while sleeping: I’ve never heard of this in adult parrots, but I’ve heard of captive bred lovebirds chirping when they fall asleep.

Sleep hanging forward: I haven’t seen that before

Swollen goiter after sleeping: The goiter should be full before sleeping and empty when he wakes up. If your bird’s crop is swollen after a long sleep, you need to investigate further.

How light and dark cycles affect the reproductive system

You may also want to change the light/dark cycles depending on whether you want to encourage or discourage “breeding mode” in your birds.

Most owners don’t breed parrots and for them the problem is an unmated bird showing breeding behavior.

This varies by species and there are large differences in the behavior of individual birds.

Amazons may have the worst reputation for getting aggressive during their peak season.

Biting is a problem in both sexually mature Amazons and cockatoos, while cockatiels may resort to excessive oviposition. Reproductive hormones all play a significant role in this behavior.

To lower the bird’s hormone levels and control behavior, you can reduce exposure to light to 8-10 hours a day, simulating a longer night.

Try using blackout curtains and cage covers to create that artificial darkness. You also need to put the bird in a quiet room to help it fall asleep.

It may take a while for the behavior to subside, up to a couple of weeks. Once this happens you can begin to gradually return to a normal light/night schedule.

However, this method does not work for all birds. Ken Welle, an American veterinarian, says: “For birds from temperate to polar regions, the photoperiod is the most important influence on reproduction. But the closer the bird is to the equator, the less impact it can have.”

If you have time to read Joanna Burger’s wonderful book about Tiko, an Amazon with red lorries, she describes in fascinating detail how Joanna and her husband had to change their lifestyle when Tiko was in breeding.

Tiko considered Joanna his mate and attacked her husband during this time. When not in breeding mode, he was a joy to both of them.

If you want a pair to breed, then giving them 10 to 16 hours of light per day will encourage breeding behavior.

Parrots that sleep a lot

Parrots that sleep more than 12 hours a day can do so for a variety of reasons, some benign – others less so.

An adult parrot sleeping on the floor of their cage is a serious warning sign that something is wrong.

If the feathers are also fluffed up, a visit to the veterinarian is the order of the day.

The same applies if the parrot falls off its perch. These are abnormal signs.

Sleep deprivation in parrots

Some problems that could be made worse by lack of sleep could be feather picking, excessive crying, aggression and excessive anxiety.

A home-made attempt to solve this would be to ensure the parrot sleeps in a safe place for between 10 and 12 hours.

It shouldn’t be afraid of predators like humans, stumbling noises, or strong lights.

If you succeed and the unwanted symptom does not improve after 10 to 14 days, you can rule out the lack of sleep as one of the causes.

Benefits of natural sunlight or UV lighting

Finally, you should consider what type of light your bird will be exposed to.

You should try to expose your pet birds to the UV rays given off by the sun on a daily basis. Sunlight through window glass does not impart these benefits.

Being outdoors also has psychological benefits, which is why so many of us build an aviary or close a patio.

An aviary also needs a semi-covered or green shelter, plant bird-safe trees or cut branches.

If you observe aviary birds, they will occasionally sunbathe and then perch in the shade as they would in their native woods.

Veterinarians agree that spending several hours a day outdoors has health benefits.

Some of these can be mimicked by purchasing UV lighting for the cage or bird room. Although there is no real substitute for natural UV and fresh air.

Of course, not everyone can take their bird outside, and winter can make it even more difficult. You can purchase UV lamps and equipment from Northern Parrots.

When you take your bird outside, remember to put a harness on him to make sure he’s safe. Northern parrot harnesses can also be purchased here.

Have you considered parrot insurance? Get a quote for up to £5,000 veterinary, death and theft cover | We have been insuring exotic pets since 1996 | Check out our customer reviews on Feefo.

Colorful, intelligent, playful pets, parrots are known for their ability to mimic the sounds they hear in the human and natural world around them. However, like all living creatures in human care, parrots need to be well cared for to keep them safe, healthy and happy.

This means they need lots of attention from their owners, but don’t need all-day grooming so their owners can do other things.

Parrots are social animals and unhappy when left alone. They need companionship and human interaction for at least two hours a day while being alone for no more than six or eight hours at most. Your bird should spend enough time with you to feel like his crush, his companion.

Your birds cannot be left alone for long periods of time; They are intelligent pets who will learn your schedule. It can be more difficult to bond directly with your pet if you have a full-time job or long hours that separate you from your bird.

Having two parrots makes your birds less dependent on you and offers the freedom for a more flexible schedule.

Adding a parrot to your family is a real commitment and should not be taken lightly as they will be completely dependent on you for all of their needs. If you are a parrot owner or considering getting one, consider the following points:

1. Need to leave your parrot alone? Spend enough time with him before and after!

You should interact with your bird for at least two hours a day, this is the minimum requirement for bonding with your parrot. If you can devote an hour or even less to one-on-one interaction with your pet, a parrot may not be best for you.

Remember, a parrot will treat you as a flock mate, a member of the family with whom they now share their life. If you can’t commit to it, it can be harder to bond directly with your pet.

If your parrot hasn’t bonded with you, you’ll always be the stranger…he won’t want to hang out or play with you. Aggression and indifference can result from leaving your bird alone all day.

We’ve created a few articles to help you with this:

2. You will be your parrots’ flock mate, so here are some things to keep in mind

In the wild, parrots live in flocks; They come from families that keep them company all the time. Most parrots become attached to their owners and consider them theirs. In this role, they expect you to:

keep them company

talk to them

cuddle with them

Sharing food with them (This doesn’t mean your parrot should burp on you. If that’s the case, your parrot might be in trouble. Here we show you why!)

If left alone for any length of time, they will be deprived of this bond and become a nuisance pet.

3. Parrots need lots of stimulation and exercise, can you really afford/manage that?

Parrots can and will become bored when left alone. A lone bird may resort to reduced activity, prolonged sitting, plucking, and other self-injurious behaviors.

Parrots should always have two or three different toys in their cages (You can even give them baby toys! Here are 8 recommendations!)

You should keep changing the toys in her cage to keep her mentally stimulated and active. These toys should include puzzles and/or food toys to stimulate them.

Every bird is different; Your toy may need to be changed more often than others. Some parrots require daily toy changes – this can result from boredom.

The parrot in the video is happy now, but poor posture and presumably neglect led to psychological problems (plucking of feathers).

4. Parrots make a real mess and expect you to clean it up

Parrots clean a lot, straightening their feathers and removing dead ones. This leads to flying feathers and dander that needs to be swept away daily.

You need:

a clean cage

fresh, clean water

daily servings of perishable foods

This is not possible if they are left alone for more than a few hours at a time.

Since we know that cleaning a birdcage can be a chore, we have created a birdcage cleaning guide for you, where we share 10 extremely valuable birdcage cleaning tips. Read it here!

Also, did you know that you can clean your bird cage with vinegar? We’ll show you how it’s done here!

5. Parrots need company, can you commit to being there for them?

Being social by nature, parrots want a lot of company—yours and one of their own kind. While you can give them undivided attention at home, what happens when you’re away for a long time? you always could

Get parrots in pairs, they’ll keep each other company while you’re gone

Leave the radio or TV on to give the illusion of company

6. Parrots get used to your schedule and expect your company accordingly

Once a parrot is bonded, it will learn to expect you at certain times. If your schedule suddenly changes, your birdies may react poorly at first and may not welcome your return as much.

Your feathered friend can learn to adapt accordingly, but this is just as stressful for them as it is for a child.

7. Bored parrots can be temperamental, remember they have a toddler’s IQ!

Parrots have the intelligence of human toddlers, expect tantrums stemming from loneliness to be on par. Parrots are known to have a wide range of attitudes and behaviors, but there are generalizations between species, particularly when it comes to symptoms of stress and boredom.

The following are signs that a parrot is sulking from a lack of attention:

pinch

bite

Hissing (Here are 10 reasons why parrots hiss)

ruffled feathers and a

grumpy reverse turn

In extreme cases, loneliness can manifest itself in self-injurious activities such as feather picking and refusal to eat.

8. Parrots of all sizes can be very noisy – especially when they’re alone and bored!

Can you and your neighbors handle it? Parrots in the wild call out to their flockmates with loud squawks, squawks, and other “contact calls.”

However, a noisy bird at home can get bored and try to attract the attention of its owner. If your pet calls you, chances are they’re bored and want your company. Remember, the larger the parrot, the louder and harsher its call.

9. Bored parrots are destructive and can traverse an entire room in a few hours!

Left to their own devices for most of the day, parrots, regardless of their physical size, can find various uses for their great intelligence.

Parrots have been known to break out of their cage and wreak havoc in the owner’s home. Tattered couches, bird droppings everywhere, and chewed wooden furniture can be the work of a bored parrot.

If your parrot is destroying your furniture, you should read this article: How to stop your parrot from chewing furniture!

related questions

What should I do with my parrot if I have to travel? Parrots don’t respond well to change, it stresses them out. If you own parrots and need to travel, it may be best to leave them at home. Find a responsible caregiver who can visit you daily to change food, water and cage liners. If that is not possible, you can find vets with bird boarding or bird sitters.

How do I train my parrot to stop crying? Have you caught your bird with a pre-learned habit of yelling unnecessarily, or does it want attention? Either way, walking away from the bird until it’s calm and then returning with praise, treats, and a cuddle usually works. It takes time, but your parrot should learn that yelling will result in being left alone.

One, two or many parrots – which is better?

Parrot keeping is far more of an art than a science. That’s part of his fascination. You can’t design a lab experiment to prove which situation is more beneficial to the parrot – a single parrot living with humans or multiple parrots living with humans.

I would like to give some of the opinions and arguments for both situations and provide anecdotal evidence and case studies from real birds in both situations.

Angela Cancilla Herschel is an experienced parrot keeper, a keen observer of wild parrots, and a conservationist in her native region of California.

Her gaze is uncompromising. She writes: “It always saddens me to know that a parrot is alone without another of its kind. In my travels through the rainforest I have always been amazed at how little screams are heard, and I have been to the rainforests of Tambopata in Peru and Bali and Seram and the other islands of Indonesia.”

And she continues: “Parrots only scream for a reason. In the wild parrots call and communicate but you only hear screams from nest takeovers or from predators so you know something is very wrong and it is NOT common in the wild.

Excessive crying in captivity means something is wrong or the parrot has learned that the behavior is legitimate and is getting what it wants.”

“One thing that strikes you in the wild is that you never see a parrot alone. For example, macaws stay in pairs. When you see a group of them (it’s deceptive) what you really see is more of a meeting point than all going to the same grocery store. Make no mistake, they’re not flocking birds (you can pick the pairs in a “group” and almost “see an invisible bubble around each pair”).

“Parakeets are a different story and are always seen flying around in flocks; they are true flock birds. Having a parrot alone is just not natural and can instinctively create issues with abandonment fears like excessive crying.”

Neena Lynne McNulty holds two macaws. She made her first Blue Throat, Ingrid, a new home for two reasons. Neena flies her macaws freely and Ingrid was too socialized with humans and kept flying down on strangers.

When Neena added two young macaws to her flock (she also has an Amazon without flight), Ingrid did not accept the young birds, although the Amazon raised them. She flies outside with these two macaws every day and says, “It IS true. They rarely cry. In-flight contact calls are about the only times I hear their voices.”

Another person who claims the lone bird is an unlucky bird is Ann Castro. Ann keeps about twenty mixed species in a large converted farm building. Several of her training books have been translated from German into English.

Most of their birds are rescues from heartbreaking situations, years in the dark, undersized cages, poor diet and even physical abuse. For every bird she accepts, she provides a conspecific. The large amount of space in their facility and the lack of nesting boxes suppress uncontrollable mating behavior.

Many of the proponents of multi-bird households have doubts about the suitability of parrots as pets.

says Alicia Andrews. “Parrots are social herd animals and not meant to be kept alone – unless they must be kept in captivity. A lone parrot is a sad parrot and I don’t care how good a diet it is, how many toys it has, how big a cage it is, how much downtime it gets, a lone parrot is a selfish person’s choice – and when that person is it is not there, the parrot is alone, which is not a natural situation for him.”

“I am against the reproduction of parrots as pets – they are highly intelligent creatures that suffer in captivity, they suffer from lack of exercise (in the wild they would fly miles a day), they suffer from lack of a mate when dressing when they don’t have one, they suffer from being forced to eat what we want (not everyone is lucky enough to have a good diet, and even then we’re not sure what’s right and what’s not), and am most of them suffer from the lack of their fundamental right – freedom. …. Birds should attach themselves to each other, not to us.”

“Unscrupulous breeders who sell birds and tell people not to get two ‘because they will bond to each other and not you’ are wrong. I run a parrot rescue – many of the pairs are bonded not only to each other but to me and everyone else who cares for them. They will groom each other and then sit on my shoulder and groom me.”

“I’m fed up with people who think birds should only bond with them and not have the option to bond with another bird instead. It’s cruel, it’s selfish, and it’s unreasonable. We have already deprived them of their liberty – why deprive them of the company of their peers as well?”

These are strong arguments, but they are opposed by another point of view. We’ve spoken of macaws in pairs or groups in the wild or in captivity. Can the single macaw become a successful pet?

“I think it makes a big difference whether birds are screamers or not when you’re raised by parents. Raised by parents, Kallee knows she is a bird and not a person. And good nutrition makes a difference, too. Kallee gets Mike’s Manna Mash, no

One of the main reasons for keeping a single parrot is that the parrot has no way of bonding with any creature other than you. Liz Blide Wickard admits it matters to her. “I promised Kallee that she would always be my only parrot… and I intend to keep that promise. I know others who got another parrot for their parrot. The two parrots bonded and they lost each other as pets. That would break my heart.”

“Call me selfish but I have a parrot to bond with me. Kallee and I have been together for 15 years and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Liz Blide Wickard thinks so. She says: “I have a Blue and Gold as my only bird and she almost never cries. I think birds cry out of boredom. Kallee spends every time I’m home outside of her cage and she gets a lot of enrichment. She’s trained to do tricks and loves to show off.” “I think it makes a big difference whether birds are screamers or not. Raised by parents, Kallee knows she is a bird and not a person. And good nutrition makes a difference, too. Kallee gets Mike’s Manna Mash, no pellets or any other crap they sell, fresh fruit for breakfast, and nuts and seeds as treats for every creature other than you. Liz Blide Wickard admits it matters to her. “I promised Kallee that she would always be my only parrot… and I intend to keep that promise. I know others who got another parrot for their parrot. The two parrots bonded and they lost each other as pets. It would break my heart.” “Call me selfish, but I have a parrot to bond with. Kallee and I have been together for 15 years and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Another single parrot that defies the dictum that a parrot alone is not natural is Alfie, a nine-year-old blue and golden macaw. Alfie lives in Wales with Debbie, her daughter Amy and their dog.

For his first six years, Alfie grew up listening to Sausage the Duck, and he copied Sausage’s mannerisms.

When Amy was born seven years ago, Debbie handled the jealousy problem so well that Alfie and Sausage ended up protecting Amy. Sausage wouldn’t even let visitors into Amy’s bedroom.

I kept a single gray Artha (see mine

Here are two more examples.

Bobby came to Anguel and Wayne six years ago, plucked, biting and miserable from a cramped cage situation. He is unrecognizable in the better environment of fellow Grays in the company – a lively feathered friendly bird.

So my experience tells me that a single bird can be perfectly adapted when its human family becomes its flock. Max Gray is such a bird. Mandy is often at home and Max is free in the house with her; He has an aviary for warm weather. He fled and has a large English vocabulary. That he is a well adjusted bird proves to me that when he meets my Grays he blends in with the flock after an initial reluctance.

SO, who is right and who is wrong?

If you are willing to meet the parrot’s needs yourself, he or she will adapt. But if you add companions I think your birding experience will be enriched.

In MY view it is more difficult to give ONE bird an enriching life than two or more. Here is another debate that can be opened.

There is more information on choosing a parrot

Debbie, not a professional bird trainer, has nevertheless socialized Alfie to a phenomenal extent. First sheared by his breeder, she fledges him and flies him free, occasionally Alfie plays with local children in the streets. He has visited our herd several times and behaved impeccably. I kept a single gray Artha (see my first blog) for 18 months before getting her a gray companion. My reasons for adding another bird relate to the pleasure I get from watching parrots interact: a shared grooming session; an argument about whose turn the swing is; a collaborative effort to open the cookie jar. Several parrots fly to my shoulders for treats. It’s just fun. As for extra labor and cost, that’s inevitable. Here are two more examples. Bobby came to Anguel and Wayne six years ago, plucked, biting and miserable from a cramped cage situation. Unrecognizable in the better environment of fellow Grays in the company, he is a brightly feathered, friendly bird. So my experience tells me that a single bird can be very well adjusted when its human family becomes its flock. Max Gray is such a bird. Mandy is often at home and Max is free in the house with her; He has an aviary for warm weather. He fled and has a large English vocabulary. That he is a well adjusted bird proves to me that when he meets my Grays he blends in with the flock after an initial reluctance. So who is right and who is wrong? If you are willing to meet the parrot’s needs yourself, he or she will adapt. But if you add companions I think your birding experience will be enriched. In MY view it is more difficult to give ONE bird an enriching life than two or more. Here is another debate that can be opened. More information on choosing a parrot can be found here

Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to read such blogs, as well as exclusive offers and the latest Parrot news. If you have a friend who you think might find this useful, please feel free to share

Provide many food options and foraging opportunities

Andi Weiland/EyeEm/Getty Images

In the wild, parrots eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, seeds, berries, and nuts. It’s no wonder they get bored in captivity, eating the same old pellets and seed mixes day after day. They also need to find food in the wild and spend hours doing it – encourage this behavior in your parrot at home by introducing foraging!

Aside from keeping your bird happy and busy, adding more variety to your bird’s diet in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables can give your bird’s body a healthy boost of vitamins and nutrients. For added fun and expanded options, you can make homemade bird treats in the comfort of your own kitchen. Place these treats in paper that can be easily shredded, or get a jigsaw puzzle from the pet store to put inside and watch them figure out how to get there – it’s a great mental reward for them!

One of the most intelligent birds ever studied, the gray parrot has an amazing ability to imitate speech. They can be wonderful and affectionate, but like other large parrots, African Grays are considered high maintenance pets. While “greys” are fun and rewarding to keep, they prefer a routine schedule and require plenty of time with their owners. As such, African Grays may not be appropriate for those who work infrequently, travel frequently, or spend long hours away from home.

Biological Facts

gray parrot (Psittacus erithacus); two subspecies Kongo: larger body, light gray coloring, all black bill and bright red tail feathers Timneh: smaller body, dark gray coloring, flesh colored upper half of bill and dark brown tail feathers

Weight: 330-500g

Juveniles have dark gray irises that turn pale yellow by the age of 1 year

Sexual maturity: 4-6 years

avg Lifespan: 25-30 years

Maximum recorded lifetime: 50+ years

Origin: West and Central Africa

behavior

Often bonds with one family member and rejects others.

Often fearful or intolerant of strangers.

African gray chicks raised by parents are considered better adapted than those raised entirely by humans. Baby birds that are handled by humans while still in the nest tend to exhibit fewer behavioral problems (e.g., feather pecking, fearfulness, aggression) at maturity than those that are not.

Domesticated birds adapt easily to new environments and activities; Expose yourself early to daily activities in your household as well as other pets

Are intelligent, curious and love to explore their surroundings.

Need environment enrichment, interesting toys and foraging practice to reduce the likelihood of behavior problems.

diet

Wild African gray parrots feed on a variety of fruits, nuts, and vegetables.

Seed-based diets are not recommended as they allow pet birds to choose an unbalanced diet from the supply.

Formulated diets (“pellets” or “crumbles”) provide a more complete and balanced diet, do not allow for selective feeding, and should make up about 75% of the diet

Dark leafy greens, greens, and fruits can make up 20-25% of the diet

Treats should be limited to only 5% of the diet

Clean, fresh water should be provided daily

Surroundings

The enclosures should be as large as possible to allow the bird to fully extend its wings and wings without touching the cage walls

The cage should be clean, safe and secure, and made of durable, non-toxic materials

Perches should have a variety of widths, heights, and textures. Also provide a concrete bar to groom the toenails.

Avoid placing perches directly over food or water to avoid contamination

Access to natural light is preferred, and supplemental UV light may be recommended to treat or prevent feather pecking or hypocalcemia.

Avoid drafty areas.

Parrots should be kept in their cage or a “bird-proof” room unless they are under direct supervision.

Birds with unrestricted access to the home are at risk from accidents such as toxin ingestion, electrocution, pet attacks, and drowning.

prevention

Physical exams every 6-12 months Consult a veterinarian experienced in avian medicine if you have any questions or concerns about your bird’s health.

Annual stool examination for parasites, yeast and bacteria

Vaccination against polyomavirus as directed by your veterinarian

Routine blood tests

Wings, nail trimming as needed

Common medical disorders

Birds make great pets! They can be easy to train, have long lifespans, and love attention from their owners. One of the more interesting characteristics of some bird species is that they can talk! Some birds can even learn to mimic the words and phrases they say by spending time with their owners. What other pet can do that?

It is important to remember that each individual bird is different and not every bird within a speaking species will actually learn to speak. Also, some birds that speak speak softly, while others speak loudly.

Here are some of the top talking bird species:

gray parrot

This gray parrot is considered the most intelligent talking bird species. With their large vocabulary, they can mimic a variety of words. Some experts would say her approach and speaking skills are on par with that of a toddler! These birds usually have gray feathers with pale edges and a bright red tail.

Indian Ring-necked Parakeet

These birds are also very smart, able to build up a large vocabulary and possibly speak in full sentences. Indian ringnecks are also known for speaking very clearly and showing the mood of the phrases they mimic. These birds have green feathers, yellow underwings, and blue tails.

budgie

Also known as budgies or parakeets in general, are very common and very sociable birds. They are able to learn many words, phrases and sometimes even songs. However, budgies have deeper, raspier voices. Typically, these birds have a green belly, black and yellow feathers, a yellow head, and a blue tail. There are other varieties of this offering type that have more blue, yellow, or gray colors on their body.

quaker parakeet

Also known as the monk parakeet, these birds are very social and smart. Quakers have an extensive vocabulary and are quick learners, making them ideal for talking bird owners. These birds typically have green heads and wings with gray bellies.

Yellow-naped Amazon Parrot

Of all the Amazon parrots, the yellow-naped is considered to have the best language ability. These birds are very intelligent, love to be social, talk and even sing. They are often considered to have very sweet sounding voices and can speak with great clarity. These birds have a green body, yellow head, red around the wing bend, and white rings around their eyes.

If you are interested in getting a pet bird or have any questions, call For Birds Only – Pet Lovers USA at (516) 746-3630.

If you own an African or Timney gray parrot, you may know that it was listed on Appendix 1 (Appendix A in Europe) of CITES on 4 February 2017.

Is your parrot insured? Request a quote to cover veterinary costs, death and theft up to £5,000. Because there is no NHS for pets.

Skip to:

What are the Gray Parrot CITES Amendments?

CITES is an international agreement made by countries around the world to control trade in endangered species, flora and fauna.

It is divided into Appendices I, II, III (Appendices A, B, C and D in Europe), with the most endangered animal and plant species listed in Appendix I (Appendix A).

The changes mean that if you want to use your bird for commercial purposes, including breeding from a pair to sell the chicks, you must accompany the bird(s) with an Article 10 certificate.

According to DEFRA, commercial use is defined as: “the purchase, offering for sale, acquisition for commercial purposes, display to the public for commercial purposes, use for commercial purposes and sale, holding for sale, offering for sale and the transportation to the sale.”

What is an Article 10 Certificate?

There are two types of Article 10 certificates; Transaction-specific certificate and a pattern-specific certificate.

The transaction specific certificate is valid for a sale and if you are selling your bird you should show it to the buyer. It proves that the bird was acquired legally.

A specimen-specific certificate accompanies the parrot for the rest of its life. So you must give the certificate to the person you are selling the bird to who will keep it. If they decide to resell the pet, the certificate goes with the bird.

The new CITES updates have caused some concern among existing parrot owners, who fear they may not be able to prove they legally acquired the bird before the regulation goes into effect on February 4, 2017.

What evidence of bird ownership can I provide for CITES?

According to DEFRA, you can get an Article 10 certificate if you can provide documentary evidence that you acquired your pet before February 4, 2017. The list of evidence should be within reach of most pet owners and is not as daunting as it might seem.

Your bird must also be permanently and clearly identified. This can either be with a closed ring – this can only be equipped as a chick. Or by microchips.

DEFRA recommends that the following can be provided:

A DNA certificate or microchip certificate

Written confirmation from the veterinarian with the date the bird was first registered in the practice by the applicant

Pet insurance records dated before February 4, 2017. ExoticDirect is happy to provide these to you free of charge if you no longer own them.

If adopted by a rescue organization, a signed and dated copy of the documentation

Signed statement from the previous owner/seller detailing the origin of the bird and the date of purchase

If purchased privately, copies of email trails, receipts, invoice, logbook/stock lists/breeder records

From DEFRA, with thanks.

You are not required to provide all of the above information, but as much as possible can help with your application.

You can also provide other supporting evidence to help prove ownership before February 4, 2017 if you wish.

Here you can download an application form according to CITES Article 10.

Pet bird owners who do not intend to sell and prove

Even if you do not intend to sell your bird in the future, it is important that you still collect evidence of when you acquired your bird.

This is because there may come a point in the future when you can no longer take care of your pet.

If you have the relevant evidence, you can find a suitable home more easily.

With the new regulation, most pet buyers are likely to want to see evidence that the bird was legally acquired and might be suspicious of a bird sale without supporting evidence.

So best be prepared.

I am buying an African/Timneh Grey, do I need a CITES certificate?

If you buy an African or Timneh gray parrot, you do not need to apply for a certificate. However, you must see the pet dealer’s certificate or obtain the certificate.

If you already own a Gray and do not intend to sell it, you do not need a certificate and the regulation does not affect you. However, if you ever want to sell your bird, you will need a certificate.

How much does a CITES certificate cost?

An Article 10 certificate costs £31 (as of October 2018). This is the fee for a certificate for a parrot.

How long does it take to issue a CITES certificate?

You should expect to receive a response from DEFRA within 15 days of receiving your application.

Do you need a CITES Article 10 certificate for a Blue and Gold Macaw?

No, you do not need an Article 10 license for Blue and Golden Macaws as the species is currently on Appendix B.

However, it is recommended that you retain documentation proving the bird was legally acquired as evidence in case you are ever challenged.

This is also useful if you need to apply for an export or import license when moving the bird out of the EU, as evidence will show legal ownership.

Can you give away a gray parrot from Africa/Timneh?

Yes you can as long as there is no financial transaction involved.

Need an item 10 to sell a pair of parrots?

If the parrots are listed on Appendix 1 (Appendix A in Europe), you will need a separate Article 10 license for both birds.