Introduction
African Parrot Species – Parrots are colorful and smart birds that we think of when hearing about a parrot. African Parrots seem to be one of the most beautiful species in terms of their exotic feathers, engaging personalities, and great intelligence. They thrive in their native habitat but are also considered great as pets. The African Grey Parrot is a species that many people know very well but Africa has so much more to offer and there are various other creations in this continent with all of them possessing their charm. The truth is, these parrots are not just beautiful but very social and highly intelligent and they require quite a psychological stimulation as well the company to live a pleasing life.
The African continent is rich in a range of parrot pet birds with various qualities and features. From the admiring African Grey parrot, renowned for being a brilliant talker to the beautiful Cape Parrot that just makes you love these birds. Apart from their vibrant appearance, African parrots are very intelligent and have a highly sociable nature which makes them much loved around the world. African parrots have the recognition of being one of longest living species and pets to keep as its owner because they can easily live over 50 years, making this an entire life responsibility. This makes understanding their needs and behaviors extremely important.
African Parrot Species
Following are the 5 amazing African parrot species and their differences (behaviors, care needs) that will help you learn more about what sets them apart from the rest.
African Grey Parrot
One of the most famous African parrots is probably the African Grey Parrot, often associated with its ability to talk. These parrots are very gifted at imitating human speech, being able to match the pitch and even rhythm of a person with remarkable accuracy. African Greys are medium parrots with grey feathers and red tails. Their intelligence is one reason why African Greys have been kept as a favorite pet type among parrot fans.
African Grey Parrots are a wonderful pet to have, but they can be quite sensitive even though they are lovely and affectionate. They do best in a peaceful, loving atmosphere and require plenty of interaction with their humans. African Greys are amazing at forming deep emotional bonds and being companions, but they do need patience. They need serious mind work to keep them happy and healthy. Puzzles, interactive toys, and socializing will prevent boredom.
Senegal Parrot
The Senegal Parrot might be on the smaller side, but it sure does know how to hold its place. Senegals are small parrot-type species. They have a very uncommon appearance with yellow, orange, and green feathers. Senegals are playful and social, making them a great species for someone wanting some hands-on interaction with their bird. While they can learn to speak and make noises, Senegal are quieter than their African Grey cousins.
These creatures are rather care-intensive than most parrots, however need at least a daily play and interaction. Highly interactive and playful, they are great fun to have as a pets. If you want an entertaining, loving bird the Senegal Parrot is perfect.
Cape Parrot
The Cape Parrot is one of the largest and most attractive parrot species that are found in Africa. The Cape parrot with its green body and orange head is a rare bird indeed, to spot at all let alone in captivity. More quiet than some parrot species, they are still as bright and loving. Cape Parrots require a large cage and lots of mental stimulation with regular exercise. Like most parrot species, they do best with a good mix of toys/puzzles to play with and things for your bird to access. They also require a larger cage (a definite con) and more living space.
Mayer’s Parrot
A smaller, quieter species like Meyer’s Parrot would be a great match for someone who lives in an apartment or simply wants and needs their bird to stay quiet during work so they don’t get exhausted. Mostly green, with blue and yellow markings that make them distinct While the species of Mayer parrots are not as loud or verbal as an African Grey Parrot, and don’t have that amazing Senegal call, they are very gentle birds with overall good temperaments.
It is easier to care for this breed than other African parrots, including the most self-absorbed species from other parrots. Even though they like to be social, if an owner cannot supply this level of contact full-time then their relative independence makes them good companions for individuals who are perhaps busier. Mayers are not known for being particularly chatty, but they can be very affectionate and bond well with owners.
Brown-Headed Parrot
The Brown-headed Parrot is a gentle and inquisitive bird. It has an overall green body with a brown head, which is quite easily identified. These birds are sociable and usually maintain the good nature of most parrots. Although they are not the most lively, their calm demeanor and intelligence make them a good option for families or people who want to have a pet that requires less entertainment than other more vocal birds.
Brown-headed Parrots are curious birds and love to investigate new things. Toys that stimulate and get their brains working to help them in newfound play space. They are not quite as noisy as an African Grey, but they can learn minimal words to mimic sounds and words making them a wonderful choice for many bird lovers.
Conclusion
Having an African parrot in the home adds beauty and smarts that can only be rivaled by their company. They get your heartstrings through their ability to talk, or you love the playful side of a Senegal and maybe take on a challenge by learning all about how different it is when trying to make friends with one of these Cape Parrots These parrots are very social animals so if you can’t provide them the attention and entertainment they need, then that’s a problem in itself. Unfortunately, they are a huge commitment — as living creatures with long lifespans and health care requirements.
