African grey parrot

Psittacus erithacus

The African grey parrot is a highly social bird of African forests. Diurnal flocks move through the canopy in search of plant foods.

Key facts

African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is a herbivore animal classified as Bird · Psittaciformes · Psittacidae.
Primary habitats are forest, with a range across Afrotropical.
Activity is diurnal, sociality is social, and conservation status is EN (Endangered).
The African grey parrot is a highly social bird of African forests.
It uses tropical forest and forest edges, depending on large canopy trees and nest cavities.
Typical lifespan: 8-25 years

Habitat range map

Native rangeOccasional / Transient

Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)

It uses tropical forest and forest edges, depending on large canopy trees and nest cavities. Flocks visit fruiting trees and water sources.

Wingspan is about 46-52 cm and weight about 400-490 g. Gray plumage, a pale face, red tail feathers, and a strong hooked bill are distinctive.

Diurnal and social, it keeps contact with varied calls. Flocks gather while feeding and when moving to roosts.

It is herbivorous, eating fruit, seeds, nuts, and flowers. The powerful bill cracks hard shells.

Pairs nest in tree cavities and raise chicks there. Young remain in the nest long enough to develop flight and feeding skills.

Its status is listed as Endangered. Forest loss and trade pressure are major threats, and mature cavity-bearing trees are important.