Traits: The Congo African grey enjoys socializing, but its behavior is often affected by the owner’s mood and home environment. This pet bird isn’t known as a cuddler, but it does enjoy a head scratch and intelligent conversation. Some Congo African grey owners say these pet birds are intuitive to the point that they become familiar with the owner’s schedule of activities. Congo African greys are also known to have a mischievous attitude, a quality some pet birds use to play pranks on their owners.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Biting and aggression are more common with males, and excessive shyness is more common with females. African greys are susceptible to feather picking, calcium, vitamin-A and vitamin-D deficiencies, respiratory infections, psittacosis and psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD). African greys are sensitive to stress and do best in a low or stress-free environment, according to Pamela Clark, IAABC Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant. These pet birds are capable of getting through the typical stressful moments that any family will encounter, but they will not thrive if kept in a home with extended periods of anxiety and stress. It is recommended that sunflower and/or safflower seeds be added to an African grey’s diet as a substitute for the oil they ingest from palm seed in the wild.