African Grey Parrot Glasgow? The 49 Latest Answer

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.

At AlphaPet we see a significant number of Gray Africans, but we are always amazed at how little many owners have been told how best to care for their pet. This leaflet aims to answer the most frequently asked questions from customers.

African Grays are one of the most common parrots kept as pets in the UK. There are two main varieties – the Timneh and the Kongo. Timnehs are slightly smaller and don’t have the bright red tail of the Kongo.

As the name suggests, these birds evolved in the rainforests of Africa. Unfortunately, most of the problems we see in keeping African Gray Parrots result from an inability to emulate rainforest conditions in the living room of a native British home! Also keep in mind that African Grays live in social herds in the wild, while we choose to keep them caged in solitary confinement – quite a difference. With an average life expectancy of 40-80 years, most Gray Parrots available in the UK are only a few generations removed from their wild ancestors and cannot be described as ‘domestic’ birds. They are also a relatively intelligent bird, often compared to a 9-13 year old human. This means you must be willing to invest significant time and money in their health and welfare if you decide to keep them as pets – living with a 9 to 13 year old child for the next 80 years can be be a challenge! Failure to do so can result in psychological and medical problems, sometimes necessitating euthanasia.

However, many owners successfully create adequate conditions for keeping gray parrots. Your lifestyle matters and if you work and don’t spend much time at home, an Gray Parrot is not for you!

Always try to buy a baby from an experienced, reputable breeder. Preferably spend some time with your future bird to get to know it before you buy it. If the breeder is reluctant to take the time to do this, walk away and choose another breeder.

Taking on an adult bird from someone in the pub is a sure recipe for expensive disaster. You may also adopt a stolen or illegally imported bird.

In most cases, captive birds will not be able to find food in the wild because they have never learned this skill. Eventually they will get hungry and will look for food in places they know they are, such as their old cage.

If their cage has been set up outdoors and they find it, most of them will fly right back inside. Some also fly to their owner if they can find them.

However, parrots will have no idea what their home looks like from the air. After all, they had never seen it before they fled. As such, they usually have trouble finding their home unless their cage or owner is outside.

The bird in these cases may try to fly back, but has no idea where its home is or what it looks like. Sometimes birds decide that any human will do it and fly to a random person. If your bird has been reported missing, you may receive a call.

How come ornamental birds don’t just fly away?

This is a common misconception. Many people have seen parrots outside pacing on their human’s arm and assume these birds will not fly away. However, this is not true. When the opportunity presents itself, many birds fly away, even if it is only for a short time.

In captivity, many birds have their flight feathers cut off. These feathers are necessary for the bird to be a strong flier. Without them, most birds can only glide and typically don’t gain much height. These feathers grow back, so wing clipping must be done regularly.

If you see a captive bird that just won’t fly away, chances are its wings have been cut off. Most captive birds have their wings clipped when they grow out their flight feathers, so they don’t typically try to fly. They are convinced that they cannot.

There is controversy surrounding clipping wings. Many people claim it’s cruel, while others argue it’s important to keep the bird from flying into the wild (where it’s likely to starve). You should speak to your veterinarian about whether clipping wings is the best option for your bird.

Can parrots find their way home?

In some cases, parrots can find their way home. The main obstacle for a house parrot in finding its way home is not knowing what the outside of its home looks like. They’ve lived in the house all their lives.

However, they can use other landmarks to locate their home. For example, if their owner is outside and talking, many parrots will recognize them by sound and sight. If your parrot escapes, it is recommended that you spend as much time outdoors as possible, as this can be one of the only ways your parrot can misplace their home.

It is often recommended to put the cage outside as well. Not only do parrots know what their cage looks like, they also know that it contains food. When your parrot gets hungry, it will likely start searching for its cage. Make sure you keep the cage full of food and tasty treats to lure the bird back.

As social creatures, parrots are more likely to fly home than other birds. However, the problem usually lies in whether they can find it. Many will try to fly home, but that doesn’t mean they will be successful. Parrots are strong fliers, so they can often travel miles from home.

How far can a lost parrot fly?

When a bird first escapes from its home, it usually has one of two reactions. They either fly erratically with excitement or fear, or they freeze and barely move. If your parrot falls into this latter category, they usually won’t fly that far. These parrots can usually be found in nearby trees or on other perches.

However, parrots that fly can fly for miles before settling down and resting. Some birds have been recovered as far as 50 miles away. After fleeing, many parrots are hunted by wild birds, which often means they fly farther and farther from home.

In these cases, parrots usually don’t remember the way back. They’ve never been outside and have no idea what their house looks like. These factors make it difficult for them to move their home.

If your parrot is one of those that flew far away, the chances that it will find its way back are relatively slim. After all, a parrot that has flown just 1 mile away is far more likely to fly back over its home and see its owner than one that has flown 50 miles away.

We strongly recommend contacting pet stores, animal shelters, and similar organizations within 60 miles. Once your bird begins to fly, there is no telling where it will land.

Do parrots forget their owners?

No, parrots are social birds and are good at remembering social relationships. For the most part, these parrots will remember everyone they have had close contact with, especially their owners. This even applies to parrots that have been missing for years. They can suddenly see their owner nearby and decide to return, especially if they haven’t seen them for a long time.

So if you see your escaped parrot in a tree and he completely ignores you, it’s probably not because he forgot you. In many cases, these birds may not know how to fly down. While this may seem like a relatively simple matter, many captive-reared birds have a serious problem with flying off trees. Some of them get stuck and need a lot of courage before leaving.

How far can parrots fly in a day?

In a single day, the average parrot can fly as much as 30 miles. Whether your escaped parrot will fly that far is impossible to know. Many parrots become stressed when they first escape and can fly in a single direction. If this is the case with your bird, it may fly far away.

In most cases, parrots don’t just fly in a straight line for days. After they calm down, many will begin circling in larger and larger circles. This is especially true when they go back to looking for a place to live. Therefore, some parrots can return home even if they have flown quite a distance. However, this assumes there is something about your home that they recognize. We highly recommend moving your bird’s cage outside after it escapes.

However, the farther your parrot initially flies, the less likely it is to find its way home. You may be too far away.

Why do parrots try to escape?

As any bird owner can probably tell you, birds often try to escape when they see an open window or door. The reason for this can be different. Parrots are often curious birds. If they see something new and exciting, they can try to check it out.

At the same time, parrots are social animals. If you see birds flying around outside, you might want to see them.

Other birds will try to fly out through windows and doors when scared. If something in the house startles them, they may be more likely to fly through an exit.

Final Thoughts

In many cases parrots try to come back when they fly away. As social animals, most will miss company. They will instinctively seek out people and birds they know, which usually means coming home. Also, most captive parrots don’t know how to find food in the wild. As such, they can quickly decide that returning to their cage is the only way to appease their hunger.

While most parrots try to fly back, some will not find their homes. This is especially true if they have flown far away. Parrots can fly up to 30 miles a day, so it’s not uncommon for them to land far from home.

The further away your parrot flies, the less likely it is to find its home again.

You can help them by placing landmarks outside that they may recognize, such as: B. her cage. We also recommend that owners spend as much time outside as possible. Many birds don’t recognize their home from the air, but they may recognize their owner by sight and sound.

Selected image credits: crivolu, Pixabay

Home » Can Parrots Be Kept Outside? (Answered!)

Animals love nature.

Whether it’s cats, dogs, pigs or mice, all animals thrive when given time outside – and parrots are no different.

After all, parrots live outdoors in the wild.

In the wild, parrots do not have access to indoor facilities like they do when kept as pets.

Rather, they must find their own food, shelter, and security.

And if they can survive out in the wild, then they should be able to survive out in captivity, right?

And that leads us to the question – can parrots be kept outside?

The answer to this question is yes, parrots can be kept outside. In fact, there are many benefits that come with an outdoor aviary for your parrot. However, there are also some risks that come with being outdoors and some precautions and considerations that need to be taken if you want to keep your parrot outside.

Today we’re going to talk about some of these precautions and considerations, as well as some of the many benefits and risks that come with keeping your parrot outdoors.

By the end of the article, we hope to give you more insight so you can make an informed decision about whether an outdoor aviary is the right choice for you and your parrot – so let’s not waste another minute!

Benefits of keeping your parrot outdoors

Being indoors does not come naturally to your parrot.

In the wild, parrots are never indoors.

They fly freely through the sky and live by their instinctive behavior.

In turn, it is not natural for your parrot to be stuck in a cage or in a house.

Just as we thrive in our natural environment, so do parrots.

Parrots therefore love to spend time outdoors.

Not only can being outside improve your mood, but the fresh air can be beneficial, as can the sun.

In fact, sunshine is vital to your parrot’s overall health.

Not only does it help produce strong bones, beaks, and feathers, but it also helps boost the immune system.

Additionally, sunlight can help kill germs and bacteria on your parrot’s feathers and may even help improve its eyesight.

In addition, most outdoor aviaries are larger than indoor cages, allowing your parrot to be more active during the day.

Most companion parrots use 50% less energy than parrots in the wild.

The main reason for this is that parrots in the wild have to forage and gather their own food, while captive parrots get their own room service.

The problem with this is that while captive parrots are well fed, they don’t get the amount of exercise they need to thrive.

However, a large outdoor aviary gives them more space to fly, climb and exercise throughout the day, benefiting their overall health and happiness.

Risks of keeping your parrot outdoors

While there are many benefits to keeping your parrot outdoors, there are also many risks.

This includes:

Extreme weather situations

Extreme weather, both hot and cold, can be detrimental to your parrot’s health.

Unfortunately, protecting your bird from inclement weather can be difficult, and even the best constructed aviary can be difficult to insulate effectively.

If your bird gets too hot or too cold, they are at risk of a fatal disease.

Other harsh weather events such as hail, snow, and lightning can also endanger your bird.

pathogens

Parrots that live outside are often subject to diseases and illnesses that they would likely not encounter if kept indoors.

While there are some products that will help protect your parrot from viruses, outdoor parrots are always more susceptible to things like bird flu, bacterial diseases, and parasites.

toxins

Whether we want to admit it or not, there are hundreds of toxins to which we are regularly exposed.

Many of these toxins reside in our outdoor spaces and many can be harmful to our parrots.

Pollution, for example, can be very damaging to a parrot over time.

Insects that can fly into your parrot’s cage can also carry toxins from pesticides and other chemicals.

If your parrot eats them, they could also be exposed to the toxins.

Many of these concerns can be avoided by keeping your parrot indoors.

predators

While we can protect our parrots from predators indoors, we can’t always do the same outdoors.

Unless your cage or aviary is securely enclosed, your parrot may become the unwilling victim of a resident cat, dog, snake or larger bird if it lives outside.

And because they’re in captivity, your parrot hasn’t refined the ability to escape, which can put them at even greater risk of being injured.

How to keep your parrot safe outdoors:

If you’ve read about the risks and still think you want to keep your parrot outside, you should make sure you do it safely.

Here’s how:

Consider your climate

As previously mentioned, drastic weather changes can harm your parrot.

Therefore, this is the most important factor to consider when deciding whether to keep your parrot indoors or outdoors.

If you live in an area like Southern California where weather conditions are relatively stable, building an outdoor aviary might be an option.

But if you live in an area like Canada that experiences extreme cold and heat, then you’re unlikely to keep your parrot outside.

Make sure your cage is secure

Parrots are extremely intelligent birds and it would not be unspeakable to think of an escape attempt.

Always make sure your cage or aviary is well secured and locked so your bird can’t sneak out – and don’t underestimate them – parrots can pick locks!

Protection from predators

As previously mentioned, one of the biggest risk factors for keeping your bird outside is predators.

Because birds are prey for so many different species of animals, any parrot that lives outdoors needs secure shelter.

Always ensure your aviary wiring is thick enough to prevent a) your parrot and b) rodents from chewing and ensure you have a fine mesh screen to reduce insect and vermin entry.

Know your parrot’s personality

Not all parrots are suited to outdoor living.

If your parrot is used to living indoors, it probably won’t cope well with the sudden change.

In addition, if the parrot is attached to its owner, then it probably will not be happy to live outside.

Only birds that are not adapted to indoor life should be considered for outdoor cages or aviaries.

How much cold can a parrot take?

Most people think that parrots can only live in warmer weather climates, but that’s not necessarily true.

In fact, parrots have been found to acclimate to weather as cold as 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remember that parrots have a lot of feathers and these feathers can act as insulation against the cold.

When it’s cold, parrots can puff up to form insulating pockets of air, keeping their bodies protected from the colder temperatures.

Also, parrots have scale-covered feet that can retain heat.

In cooler weather, they can use this heat to regulate body temperature.

However, this only applies to parrots that are used to cold weather.

In other words, a parrot used to living in colder weather can adapt the mechanisms needed to stay warm.

However, a parrot used to living in warmer weather would not have the same adaptations and would not be able to survive in cooler weather.

While some parrots can live in the cold, most are not acclimatized and do best in temperatures between 65-72 degrees F.

Can Parrots Endure Extreme Heat?

Because parrots generally live in warm or hot environments, they can withstand the heat fairly well.

However, parrots are at a disadvantage in extreme heat.

As humans, we have sweat glands.

When we get hot, these glands make us sweat.

This sweat then turns into moisture on our skin, helping us stay cool.

However, parrots do not have this advantage as they lack any sweat glands.

Most animals that lack sweat glands then resort to panting to cool themselves.

This helps create evaporation in the mouth, which helps regulate body temperature.

Again, parrots don’t have that advantage.

Rather, they have dry mouths.

While we often see parrots panting, this is a response to heat stress and is not a successful method of cooling.

In return, parrots have no protection from the heat.

In extreme heat, they are at increased risk of illness or even death.

So can parrots be kept outside?

Yes. Other than that, I don’t highly recommend it.

Unless you live in an environment that is stable year-round, releasing your parrot outdoors could expose them to extreme climate conditions.

Not only that, but keeping them outside can increase their risk of disease and expose them to potential predators.

My advice?

Keep your parrot indoors and take them outside occasionally.

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

African gray parrots are a favorite among bird lovers because they are incredibly intelligent, which makes them super fun and talented. Not to mention that they have an eye-catching look that makes them stand out from the crowd.

Like many other exotic birds, Gray Parrots are expensive, both in terms of one-time costs and recurring monthly payments. If you get an African Gray Parrot, you need to be prepared for that lifetime financial commitment.

Ask any current African Gray Parrot owner and they will tell you that these intelligent, graceful and inquisitive creatures are well worth the price. Let’s take a look at all the costs associated with owning Gray Parrots.

Bringing home a new Gray Parrot: One-time cost

When you get the African gray parrot for the first time, you will need to pay a number of one-time costs. The first year of ownership is by far the most expensive because of these one-time costs. The bird will be the most expensive item on this list.

Free

If you are expecting to find an African gray parrot for free, we regret to inform you that this dream is not rooted in reality. Finding these birds for free is almost impossible. You can search online but you probably won’t find anything.

assumption

$500-$1,000

You may be able to find a previously owned African Gray Parrot for adoption. Often people buy one of these birds only to find out they don’t have the resources or time to get involved.

Adopting an African Gray is a lot cheaper than buying one from a breeder, but it’s still a good price. At the very least, buy a parrot that needs a good home and is already used to people.

breeder

$500-$4,000

If you want a top quality African Gray Parrot, you need to buy one from a breeder. Breeder prices will be more expensive, but they often offer free shipping, a travel cage, and toys with the bird.

The exact price of the bird depends on the type, age, sex, etc., but expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $4,000 for an African Gray Parrot. Look around to find an Gray Parrot that fits your budget.

Initial Setup and Accessories

$231-$700

In addition to the bird itself, you need to set up its cage and home. We recommend purchasing a new parrot cage rather than a used one to avoid spreading disease (unless it was your bird cage from the previous owner). A good parrot cage that is an appropriate size for the African gray parrot costs $120.

You also need to buy things to go in the cage like stainless steel bowls, perches, wood, transportation, licenses and permits. If you import the parrot into the United States, you must also pay an import permit fee, which can cost anywhere from $111 to $565.

You will probably also have to pay for a health certificate. For this, a veterinarian must make an assessment. The price of the health certificate depends on the vet you go to.

Related Read: How to Choose the Right Cage Size for Gray Parrots

List of grooming supplies and costs for gray parrots

Allowed $111-$600 Cage $120 Cage Setup Items (like perches) $20-$50 Transportable Cage Often free with purchase of bird; $80 otherwise food and water bowls $10

How much does a gray parrot cost per month?

$185-$1800 per month

As with any other pet, Gray Parrots incur monthly fees.

Fortunately, these birds are not as expensive as dogs or cats on a monthly basis. You only have to primarily provide them with food, entertainment and health care when required.

Monthly expenses should only be high if your Gray Parrot becomes ill and requires veterinary attention. For this reason, we recommend exotic pet insurance.

health care

$0-$250 per month

The key to a healthy African Gray Parrot is a healthy diet, physical stimulation, and mental stimulation. If you provide the right food and a clean cage, the Gray Parrot should be healthy.

Aside from that, you must take the bird for an annual check-up by an exotics vet. At best, you should only be paying between $100 and $250 a year for your parrot’s healthcare. You shouldn’t have to pay for it monthly unless it’s old or ill.

meal

$45-$70 per month

The obvious monthly expense is eating the African gray parrot. The average monthly food bill for your gray parrot is between $45 and $70 per month. This is about the same price as feeding a cat or dog a month, maybe less for larger dog breeds.

About 80% of your parrot’s diet should consist of pellets. The remaining 20% ​​should come from the occasional fruit and veg for treats and vitamins. Occasionally you can feed grains, seeds and nuts.

medication and vet visits

$100 – $1,450 per month

If your Gray Parrot becomes ill, healthcare costs can increase somewhat as these birds are very unique. Emergency care for these birds typically costs between $300 and $1,200, depending on the condition.

Remember that you will also have to pay for the individual vet visit. Most exotic vets charge between $100 and $250 for a single visit.

pet insurance

$20-$40 per month

If you’ve invested the time and money to buy an African Gray Parrot, we highly recommend pet insurance. It will likely cost between $200 and $400 a year. That’s about $20 to $40 a month.

You could also create a savings account for your parrot. This savings account helps if your parrot gets injured, but you also don’t have to pay an insurance company. Either way, you’ll definitely have a reserve in case your bird gets sick!

entertainment

$20-$50 per month

A big expense that you probably haven’t thought of yet is entertainment. African gray parrots are incredibly intelligent. As a result, they need entertainment to stay stimulated. If you don’t provide enough mental stimulation, these birds will become depressed and destructive.

Unfortunately, the birds are likely to destroy the toy while playing with it. So you often have to buy familiar parrot toys. It’s a big effort, but it’s a necessary one.

Total Monthly Cost of Owning an African Gray Parrot

$185-$1800 per month

As you can see, owning a Gray Parrot is not that much more expensive than owning a dog. In fact, it’s probably cheaper. Assuming the parrot is healthy, you probably won’t be paying more than $200 a month. However, prices skyrocket when the bird becomes ill or injured.

Pet insurance is recommended for these birds due to the high vet and doctor costs. At least open a savings account for bad times.

Additional costs to consider

Besides the regular monthly pricing, there are other expenses to think about. For example, you need to take your bird on board when you go on vacation. If you’re lucky, you might have a friend who knows how to take care of birds. However, this is risky. We recommend paying for holiday meals instead.

Owning an African Gray Parrot on a budget

If you’re on a tight budget, buying an African gray parrot might not be the best place to start. After all, these birds are initially very expensive. However, there are ways you can save money on the initial purchase.

For example, you can adopt an adult African gray parrot that needs a new home. This is a great way to adopt a bird in need without paying a fortune. Most likely, the original owner will be happy to provide you with the birdcage and toy.

Save money caring for gray parrots

Since owning a gray parrot monthly is already so affordable, it’s difficult to drop the monthly price any further. However, it can be more affordable if you are really diligent when shopping.

For example, food is a huge expense. Use coupons or deals to get groceries at cheaper prices. This is especially a great option for fresh fruits and vegetables that you feed your parrot.

In addition, pet insurance is really a must with a bird of this species. If the bird gets sick or injured, monthly prices skyrocket. Although paying a monthly bill can be annoying, it really is the best way to protect yourself.

Conclusion

If you are buying a gray parrot for the first time, expect to spend a lot of money initially. The bird itself can cost up to $4000. Meanwhile, the other first-time editions can cost up to $700.

Luckily, the monthly expenses for a gray parrot are much cheaper. You’ll probably pay around $200 unless the bird gets sick. If the bird gets sick, you’ll likely have to pay a lot more per month. We recommend purchasing exotics insurance to cover yourself should this happen.

Selected image credits: TheOtherKev, Pixabay

I’ve never really had an accurate idea of ​​how much it can cost to buy a feathered pet, or the cost of bringing an African Gray Parrot home and taking good care of it.

But now that I have raised more than five parrots and one of them is the gray parrot, I can say with certainty that parrots can be expensive depending on the species you choose to purchase.

And if you are thinking of an African gray parrot then you surely know that it will cost you dearly.

Why are gray parrots so expensive? African gray parrots are expensive compared to the other parrot species as the process of obtaining legal ownership of this rare parrot species is costly. And then there are the reasonable costs of caring for and raising these parrots, which typically live to be around 50 years of age.

For those who enjoy having an intelligent and inquisitive animal as a pet, the gray parrot is certainly an ideal choice for an intelligent feathered pet.

But owning and raising an African Gray Parrot can be both expensive and a daunting task. To learn more about why it’s so expensive to have these “bird Einsteins,” read on.

The reasons gray parrots are so expensive

What is special about gray parrots?

African gray parrots are considered to be the most intelligent, charming, and brilliant mimicking and talking birds among the entire parrot family.

Because of their amazing ability to mimic sounds and speak, Gray Parrots enjoy a strong reputation among bird lovers and enthusiasts.

Considered to make great companions, these parrots are clever, high-profile talkers and will command any bird lover’s full attention.

African Gray Parrots are not just any pet to be left alone; Rather, as the owner, you need to spend a lot of time with them as they seek attention, care, and love. Unlike any other parrot species.

Gray parrots are highly sensitive and somewhat demanding. Because of their sensitivity, they require great care, as even the slightest change in their daily routine or boredom will in some way lead to their behavioral issues.

How much do gray parrots cost?

With all the specialties of the African gray parrots, their price is also special. Yes, to get an African Gray Parrot you may need to spend anywhere from $1500 to $3500.

Depending on whether you buy the parrot from a private breeder or from a pet store, the price of a gray parrot can vary. The price of such a parrot can also vary depending on its subspecies, the Congo gray parrot and the Timneh gray parrot.

Remember, no matter what size or subspecies you choose, buying an African Gray is by no means cheap. The costs for the exit papers for the legal import and export of gray parrots are very high.

As the birds become increasingly rare due to habitat loss and poaching, it becomes even more difficult to obtain legal ownership of African Gray Parrots, increasing the cost of acquiring these birds.

What factors affect the price of gray parrots?

When purchasing an African gray parrot, there are certain factors that will affect the price of the bird. Let’s take a look at what factors influence the price of gray parrots:

Age: While a featherless baby African Gray is less expensive but requires a tremendous amount of initial care, a young African Gray capable of adult feeding is much more expensive. From a certain age, the older a gray parrot gets, the cheaper it becomes

While a featherless baby African Gray is less expensive but requires a tremendous amount of initial care, a young African Gray that can take adult food is much more expensive. From a certain age, the older a gray parrot gets, the cheaper it becomes. Genetics: The quality of a Gray Parrot’s genetics also affects its price. This is done through a DNA test, which can be done at an additional cost; one can know for sure its genetic ancestry or if the African Gray is a breed of its two subspecies ie Kongo and Timneh which will affect the purchase price

The quality of an African Gray’s genetics also affects its price. This is done through a DNA test, which can be done at an additional cost; one can know for sure its genetic ancestry or if the Gray Parrot is a breed of its two subspecies, namely Kongo and Timneh, which will affect the purchase price. Appearance: Depending on how beautiful or healthy or flawless a gray parrot is, the price for it is The more desirable or pleasing the characteristics of the bird, the higher the price

Depending on how beautiful or healthy or flawless a gray parrot is, the price will vary, the more desirable or pleasing the bird’s characteristics, the higher the price. Place of purchase: The place from which one buys the bird also affects its price. For example, while buying this native bird is easy for people in West Africa, it automatically becomes expensive for people in America because of that country’s laws and regulations regarding registration, licensing, and purchase

Why raising an African Gray Parrot is expensive

Apart from the expensive purchase of gray parrots, there are additional costs involved in raising them. African Gray Parrots enjoy a long lifespan of around 50 to 70 years in captivity and are well cared for.

Therefore, the purchase of this amazingly intelligent bird is not the only high cost factor, but the great care that this species of parrot requires on a daily basis, and considering their long lifespan, raising gray parrots becomes expensive.

Acquisition of suitable toys and perches

As African Grays tend to get bored easily, keeping them active and entertained requires a lot of investment in keeping enough toys and a suitable selection of perches in their cages.

African gray parrots love to explore and play. Appropriate toys must therefore be given to keep them occupied and mentally stimulated.

Although toys for birds may seem cheaper and not an extra expense that an African Gray Parrot owner might worry, given these parrots’ sharp beak that allows them to turn a piece of wood to dust in no time, don’t underestimate the buyback cost.

Buy a strong big cage

If a proper cage is not included when purchasing an African Gray Parrot, you should know that you must purchase a large and suitable cage for your bird friend.

The cage must be strong, large and secure with separate play stands or play panels for cage activities and play. And when it’s a large cage to comfortably hold a bird like the gray parrot, you know the cage doesn’t come cheap.

If you are thinking about buying a used cage for your Gray Parrot to control the high cost, you should know that there is always a risk that the cage will become infected and give your precious bird a viral disease.

For an expensive bird like the Gray Parrot, purchasing a strong new large cage is always highly recommended.

maintaining a quality diet

A good quality, healthy diet is a must to keep Gray Parrots healthy, energetic and happy. From a healthy seed mix to high quality pellets, plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit daily, and the occasional treat are the basic requirements for a proper Gray Parrot diet.

You can not save as a pet owner.

Deciding on necessary veterinary bird treatments

When buying an expensive bird like the African Gray Parrot, be sure to protect it from disease and disease of any kind. Therefore, there are the costs of pet insurance coverage and vet visit bills to ensure the health of your feathered friend.

In conclusion, while Gray Parrots make great companions, energetic, and intelligent pets, they cost dearly both financially and in terms of a pet owner’s time, attention, and energy.

Only those who are willing and able to bear both the non-financial and financial costs should choose to have gray parrots as pets. Remember, African Grays aren’t just any pet, they’re an expensive long-term major commitment.

related questions

Can Gray Parrots Make Good Pets? Considered one of the most intelligent birds ever studied, African Gray Parrots make great pets. When cared for properly, they can be amazingly affectionate and wonderful. For those looking for a long-lived and mature bird pet, grays can make a great pet.

What is the Average Lifespan of African Gray Parrots? African Gray Parrots can live anywhere from 50 to 70 years in captivity when provided with the right diet and good care. However, it is believed that these parrots live longer in the wild, up to 80 years. If kept happy and healthy, their lifespan can exceed 70 years even in captivity.

What is the ideal bedtime for an African Gray Parrot? Typically, parrots need at least 10 hours of sleep a day. However, African gray parrots require at least 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. It is often the incomplete and inadequate sleep that leads to grumbling and behavioral problems such as plucking their own feathers in gray parrots.

This article was co-authored by Melissa Nelson, DVM, PhD, and wikiHow contributor Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA. dr Nelson is a companion and large animal veterinarian based in Minnesota where she has over 18 years experience as a veterinarian at a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1998. This article has been viewed 25,262 times.

Article overview

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If you’re unsure if an African Gray Parrot is right for you, remember that they are very intelligent and social and therefore need a lot of attention and stimulation. If you don’t have several hours a day to give your pet attention, you might want to consider a less demanding bird. Because African Grays are large birds, make sure you have enough space to keep a cage that is at least 4 feet high and 3 feet long. They can also be expensive pets, costing thousands of dollars upfront and then hundreds of dollars a year to care for, so it might not be a good choice if you’re on a budget. For advice from our veterinary co-author on how to care for an African Gray Parrot, read on!

Is your parrot insured? 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.

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 veterinary, death and 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.

Raising a parrot comes with a lot of responsibility, especially when adopting a parrot for the first time, leading many people new to the world of parrots to wonder what the best parrot is for a beginner .

Considering that having a parrot in some form is extremely beneficial, finding the right parrot for you is an even more rewarding experience.

Against this background, are African grays good for beginners?

To answer that question… no, Grays are generally not recommended for beginners as they can be very demanding parrots. However, if you manage to educate yourself about Gray Parrots, be patient, and do whatever you can to make sure the Gray Parrot is doing well, you can certainly adopt an Gray Parrot as your first parrot. Just remember to be diligent about it.

When you consider that Gray Parrots are some of the most unique and compelling parrots in the entire world, it’s worth learning more about this beautiful species.

Whether you are looking for a parrot that is exceptionally good at communicating or just a parrot full of personality, this is largely why people are so keenly interested in African Grays.

However, if you are interested in adopting an African Gray Parrot for your first parrot, we will cover a wide range of information for you to dive into.

We will highlight at what age is the best time to buy a gray parrot, how long it takes to get used to a gray parrot as a beginner, whether gray parrots make good pets, how to get a gray parrot to like each other as a beginner, and much more more.

Let’s take a look!

What is the best age to buy an African Gray for a beginner?

In general, when people are interested in adopting a Gray African, they tend to explore what age is best for them to be adopted.

Although Gray Parrots are not fully mature until they are 4 to 6 years old, most experts recommend adopting a Gray Parrot when they are 2 to 6 months old.

Yes, that age means you have a few years to raise an African Gray Parrot before it’s fully grown, but there’s a reason for that.

If you can get a young Gray Parrot while it’s still eating baby food, feeding it when it’s young will help develop a stronger bond between the two of you.

However, remember that raising a younger parrot is undoubtedly more of a challenge than an adult parrot.

Although it will be easier for the parrot to get used to you, raising a younger parrot comes with more responsibility than an adult.

So you have to weigh the pros and cons associated with the matter.

How long does it take to get used to a gray parrot as a beginner?

How long it takes for a gray parrot to get used to you depends on the parrot itself.

For example, you might be around an African Gray for a considerable amount of time before it develops an attachment to you, while another African Gray might become accustomed to you immediately.

Still, there are some tips you can use to get your parrot to like you a lot quicker.

First, make sure you play with your parrot often.

Gray parrots need at least three hours out of their cage, so be sure to spend a good chunk of that time playing with them.

Finally, try to do whatever it takes to give them treats while showing affection.

When your parrot starts to feel like you are there to raise it properly, it will surely get a lot of love out of it.

A few treats and some quality time together will help speed up the whole process until you realize it’s your best friend.

Are Gray Parrots Good Pets?

On a more general question related to Gray Parrots, some of you may be wondering if Gray Parrots make good pets.

For the most part, Gray Parrots are among the most desirable pets around the world, largely due to their high intelligence and ability to communicate.

But does this make a gray parrot a good pet?

As long as you take the time to raise an African Gray well, you are sure to find that the African Gray makes a great pet.

Just remember to do some research and take your time doing it.

How do I get an Gray Parrot to like me as a beginner?

As mentioned earlier, when you adopt a Gray African for the first time, there are a few rules to make sure the Gray African ends up liking you.

First, make sure you spend more than enough time with them each day to show them that everything is Copacetan.

Finally, give them treats and show them affection if they want it.

How do Gray Africans show affection to beginners?

African Grays tend to show affection by showing a certain level of excitement when they are around someone they care deeply about.

When you walk into a room and your Gray Parrot is looking gleeful, that’s a good sign that he’s showing affection.

They also show affection by tilting their head and coming to a person’s side.

How do Gray Africans show anger toward beginners?

Similar to cats and dogs, Gray Parrots usually show anger by growling and fluffing their feathers when they are near someone.

If you see your Gray Parrot doing this, make sure he’s okay, but usually it just means he wants some alone time.

Be sure to do what you can to give them some alone time.

What does it mean when a gray parrot puffs up near a beginner?

Although African Grays often puff while angry, they may do so around their new owner if they are not yet accustomed to the person.

Give it some time and you should be able to see your parrot normally again before you know it.

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.

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

Bird that can mimic human speech

Video of a caged orange-winged amazon saying “hello” when prompted by visitors.

Talking birds are birds that can mimic human speech. There is debate in the scientific community as to whether some talking parrots also have some cognitive understanding of language. Birds have varied language abilities: some, like the corvids, can only mimic a few words and phrases, while a vocabulary of nearly 2,000 words has been observed in some budgerigars. A common pet, the mountain myna is known for its ability to speak, and its relative, the European starling, is also adept at mimicry.[1] Wild cockatoos in Australia have been reported to have learned human language through cultural transmission from ex-captive birds that have integrated into the flock.[2]

The earliest reference to a talking bird comes from Ctesias in the 5th century BC. The bird he named Bittacus[3] may have been a Plum-headed Parakeet.[4]

process [ edit ]

The young of some birds learn to communicate vocally through social learning, imitating their parents and the dominant bird in their flock. Because birds lack vocal cords, it is believed that they produce sounds and noises using throat muscles and membranes—particularly the syrinx.[5] It is likely that the sounds that birds can mimic are due to differences in anatomical structures, such as B. their missing lips are restricted.

It has been suggested that mimicry is almost ubiquitous among birds, and it is likely that eventually all species will be able to mimic extraspecific sounds (but not necessarily human speech).[6] Mimicking human language is not limited to captive birds. Wild Australian magpies, lyrebirds, and bowerbirds that interact with humans but remain free can still mimic human language.[6]

Songbirds and parrots are the two groups of birds that can learn and mimic human language.[5][7] However, it has been found that the mynah bird, which belongs to the starling family, can also be conditioned to learn and produce human language.[8] Pet birds can be taught to talk by their owners by mimicking their voice. When then introduced to wild birds, the wild birds can also mimic the new sounds. This phenomenon has been observed in public parks in Sydney, Australia, where wild parrots chant phrases such as “Hello darling!” and “What’s going on?”[5]

Types [ edit ]

Parrots[ edit ]

The Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) is a strong talker, although these skills depend entirely on training at an early age.[9] The Abyssinian Lovebird (Agapornis taranta) can talk if trained at an early age; however, they rarely develop into competent speakers. [10]

Macaws can also be considered good talkers.

Amazon Parrots[edit]

Many species of the genus Amazona are speakers, including the Yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix), Yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona ochrocephala), Yellow-naped Amazon (Amazona auropalliata), Blue-fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva), White-fronted Amazon (Amazona albifrons), Lilac-crowned Amazon (Amazona finschi) , Orange-winged Amazon (Amazona amazonica), Panamanian Amazon (Amazona ochrocephala panamensis), and Mealy Amazon (Amazona farinosa).[9][11][12][13][14][15][16] They tend to make noises more with relationships in associating than the Grays and therefore outperform the Grays in more social settings.

Gray Parrots[ edit ]

The African Gray Parrots (Psittacus) are particularly well known for their advanced cognitive abilities and ability to speak. There are two commonly kept species of which the Timneh parrot (Psittacus timneh) tends to learn to speak at a younger age than the Congo parrot (Psittacus erithacus).[9] Pet Congo Grays may learn to speak within their first year, but many don’t say their first word until they are 12 to 18 months of age.[17] Timnehs are generally observed to begin speaking earlier, some as late as the first year.

Cockatoos[edit]

Australian galahs (Eolophus roseicapilla) can talk, although not as well as some other parrots. Male galahs are reportedly easier to teach than females.[19]

The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) is classified as a fairly good talker.[20][21]

The long-billed corella (Cacatua tenuirostris) is described as being able to speak “very clearly”.[22]

Parakeets [ edit ]

The budgerigar or common parakeet (Melopsittacus undulatus) is a popular talking bird species because of its large vocabulary, ease of care, and well-socialized behavior.[23] Between 1954 and 1962, a budgie named Sparkie Williams held the record for the largest vocabulary by a talking bird; at his death he knew 531 words and 383 sentences.[3] In 1995, a budgie named Puck was credited by Guinness World Records with having the largest vocabulary of any bird at 1,728 words.

The monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus), sometimes known as the Quaker parakeet, is also a skilled talker.[9]

The Australian King Parrot (Alisterus scapularis) can be taught to speak when hand-reared.[25]

The Indian Ring-necked Parakeet (Psittacula krameri manillensis), a subspecies of the Rose-ringed Parakeet, is an accomplished speaker and a popular pet that can develop a large vocabulary and speak clearly in sentences.[9]

The Flower-headed Parakeet (Psittacula roseata) is rare and therefore not often kept as a pet, but is a good talker.[26]

The African Ring-necked Parakeet (Psittacula krameri krameri), another subspecies of the Rose-ringed Parakeet, can also talk, but some may never learn unless trained at an early age.[27]

The Derbyan Parakeet (Psittacula derbianais) is an excellent talker. The clarity of their language has been compared to that of Amazon parrots, although they may not learn extensive vocabulary.[28]

The Slate-headed Parakeet (Psittacula himalayana) does not generally learn to speak.[29]

Songbirds[ edit ]

Hill mynahs[ edit ]

Hill mynahs (tropical members of the starling family of birds) are known for their ability to mimic the human voice. It has been claimed that the Hill Mynah is the best talking bird and best mimic in the world.[30]

canary[ edit ]

A domestic or Atlantic canary (Serinus canaria forma domestica) named Pinchi, who lived with a resident of the city of Leningrad (USSR) in 1966 at the age of 2–3 months, learned to imitate the human speech of its owner and educator and weave it into his Song. The bird after 4 months began to repeat the melodies of the high voice of its mistress “Pinchi, Briks – cute birds, strange little birds, these are these birds” and in a year and a half canary Pinchi formed its song entirely from the words of human speech and birdsong . The song of the canary Pinchi, containing the words of human speech, was recorded on a tape recorder, and then released on a disc in the record company Melodiya. In 1976, copies of this recording were included in A. S. Malchevsky and co-authors’ book “Birds in Front of a Microphone and Camera” and also sold separately.[31][32][33][34]

corvids[edit]

Several members of the corvid or crow family, such as ravens, can mimic human speech. Perhaps the best-talking crows are those found in captive zoos and wildlife centers.[35][36]

Starlings [ edit ]

European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are exceptional mimics, including human language.[37] Such is their ability to imitate that strangers have searched in vain for the person they think they just heard speaking.[38]

Mockingbirds[ edit ]

The northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), as both its common and taxonomic name suggest, mimics a wide range of sounds. This includes human language.[39]

Lyrebirds[ edit ]

In Australia, lyrebirds are great mimics of many sounds, including the human voice. Lyrebirds have three squirrel muscles, while most other songbirds have four. This could make the lyrebird’s syrinx more flexible.[6][40] In a study comparing the sonograms of lyrebirds and Australian magpies during mimicry, the author noted that the lyrebird’s mimicking was “impressionistic” while that of the magpie was “realistic”.[6]

Australian magpie[ edit ]

A hand-raised Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen) developed the ability to mimic human speech, including words and phrases. This individual mimicked a large number of (non-human) sounds, but a third of all mimicked sounds were from human speech.[6] The author noted that the magpie’s mimicry was much more accurate than that of the lyrebird.[6]

ducks [edit]

Musk duck [ edit ]

Biziura lobata, a musk duck native to Australia, also mimics human speech.[41]

Function [edit]

Several theories have been proposed regarding the function of audible mimicry in general; However, these do not put forward any specific theory as to why human speech is mimicked. Some of the theories only apply to a few species due to social structure, habitat, and behavioral ecology.

Incorrect copying[edit]

It has been suggested that the (common) mimicking of non-bird sounds is simply an erroneous attempt to copy species-specific calls.[6]

Herd detection[ edit ]

In the wild, flocks of parrots develop distinct local dialects. Research shows they use these to distinguish known members of their flock from unfamiliar birds from other flocks. Birds are more responsive to sounds they are familiar with and tend to shun individuals who sound different. Birds raised in captivity could mimic humans, especially their owners, in order to be accepted as a member of the family (flock). When they hear a word or phrase repeated, they may interpret it as a vocalization characteristic of their herd. They then attempt to make the vocalization themselves to maintain their affiliation with that herd. If the parrot receives no response when screeching a natural parrot voice, but receives attention or nourishment when mimicking human speech, it has an added incentive to repeat human words and phrases.[42]

Territoriality[ edit ]

Lyrebirds’ territorial song is relatively simple and differs significantly from that of the sounds they mimic—including human speech.

Sexual selection for large repertoire[ edit ]

A proposed function for (general) facial expressions is that facial expressions have evolved into a wide repertoire of vocalizations to increase their reproductive success. The male lyrebird, for example, adorns its song with many different mimicked sounds, often the songs of other nearby birds, but can also include car horns, chainsaws, and barking dogs.

General imitation can help a bird avoid being hunted for it or its offspring. For example, the Australian magpie mimics the call of the barking owl and the boobook owl, both predators of the magpie’s young.

audio card [ edit ]

Some birds, like the Australian magpie, only mimic the sounds they hear while in their territory. It has been suggested that birds with complex social organization can develop an auditory and visual map of their territory and that mimicry facilitates this process.

Cognitive controversy[edit]

There is controversy as to whether parrots are able to use speech or just mimic what they hear. Some scientific studies – for example those carried out over a 30-year period by Irene Pepperberg with a gray parrot named Alex and other parrots and reported on numerous occasions on network television[43] – have suggested that these parrots may are capable of meaningful use of words in linguistic tasks.[44]

Some in the scientific community are skeptical of Pepperberg’s findings, citing Alex’s communication as operant conditioning.[45] Critics point to the case of Clever Hans, a horse whose owner claimed to be able to count but instead took subtle cues from him.[46] In another instance, it has been suggested that Nim Chimpsky, a chimpanzee, used language, but there is some debate as to whether he was simply imitating his teacher.[46] dr Herbert Terrace, who has worked with Nim Chimpsky, says he believes Alex performed by heart rather than speech; he calls Alex’s responses “a complex discriminatory performance” and adds that in every situation “there is an external stimulus that guides his response”. [46] However, supporters of Alex mention that Alex was able to speak to and act for everyone involved in the project as well as total strangers who recorded findings unaided and on first contact with the bird, making it difficult to to support the arguments of rote learning and operant conditioning.[47]

Scientists in France and the Czech Republic have also had some success in teaching Gray Parrots to referentially label objects with human language, although they used a different teaching method than Pepperberg’s—which proved ineffective in the case of the specific birds within the study.[ 48]

Famous Talking Birds[edit]

Alex, a gray parrot, had a vocabulary of about 100 words, far fewer than world record holders,[49] but is perhaps the best-known talking bird due to the publicity surrounding its potential cognitive abilities. While learning to speak, Alex showed the researcher Irene Pepperberg that he understood categorizations like “same and different” and “bigger and smaller”. He could identify objects by their shape (“Triangular”, “Square”, to “Hexagonal”) and material: if shown a pom-pom or a block of wood, he could answer “wool” or “wood” correctly, about 80 % currently. Alex could identify the difference between yellow and green objects of the same size by saying “color” or identify a larger object by its color. When asked what the difference was between two identical blue keys, Alex learned to answer, “None” (he pronounced it “Nuh”).[50][51][52] Alex died on September 6, 2007.[53]

“Prudle” for many years held the Guinness World Record as the bird with the largest vocabulary – documented 800 words.[54]

“N’kisi”, another gray parrot, is known for his impressive knowledge of English and other skills. As of January 2004, he had a documented vocabulary of 950 words. N’kisi is believed to be one of the most advanced users of human language in the animal world.[55]

“Einstein” appeared in many television shows and became famous for his ability to recreate sounds and speech. Video clips show him making the sound of a laser beam generator and an evil laugh. He was coached by Stephanie White.[56]

Although not a real bird, “Grip”, an essential character in Charles Dickens’ novel Barnaby Rudge, was based on a raven that Dickens had as a pet when he wrote the novel. More than once, Grip’s untimely utterances affect the course of the narrative. Grip was the inspiration for Edgar Allan Poe’s poem The Raven.

In fiction[edit]

Talking birds are used as a plot element in fiction, particularly in many works by Gabriel García Márquez.

parrots

corvids

Mynas

See also[edit]

References[edit]

Further reading[edit]

Smith, Fran (2008). Friendly Feathers: Life with Pierre, a gray parrot. Frances L Smith. ISBN 978-0-615-22232-5

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.

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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.