Timneh African Grey

The Timneh African Grey Parrot (Psittacus timneh) is a highly intelligent and social bird native to West Africa, particularly Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire. It was once considered a subspecies of the Congo African Grey but is now recognized as a separate species.

Appearance

• Smaller than the Congo African Grey, measuring 9–11 inches in length.
• Dark charcoal grey plumage, with a maroon tail instead of bright red.
• Horn-colored upper beak with a black lower mandible, unlike the Congo Grey’s fully black beak.
• Pale yellow eyes, giving them an intelligent and expressive look.

Behavior & Intelligence

• Highly social and affectionate, forming strong bonds with owners.
• Known for exceptional mimicry, capable of learning hundreds of words and imitating sounds.
• Less nervous and more outgoing than the Congo African Grey.
• Requires mental stimulation, as boredom can lead to behavioral issues.

Diet & Lifespan

• Omnivorous, feeding on seeds, nuts, fruits, leafy greens, and insects.
• Lifespan ranges from 50–70 years, making them a long-term commitment.
• Requires a balanced diet and regular health check-ups to maintain well-being.

Conservation & Threats

• Faces threats from deforestation and the illegal pet trade, leading to population declines.
• Conservation efforts include national parks and international regulations to protect wild populations.