African Grey Parrot Species Profile: Wild Behaviour, Habitat and Conservation

Many people know the African grey as a talking pet, but fewer have seen one in the wild. Wild greys live in forests and wooded country, move in noisy flocks and spend much of the day high in the canopy where they are difficult to see.

This profile describes wild behaviour, threats and the places in East Africa where you might hear or see them.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Identification

The African grey parrot is a medium-sized parrot with soft grey plumage, a paler face and a bright red tail. The bill is black and the eyes are pale yellow in adults. Males and females look alike. In flight, birds show fast, direct wingbeats and give shrill whistles. The related Timneh parrot of West Africa is darker with a maroon tail. Wild greys in East Africa belong to the Congo form, found in forest fringes in western Kenya and Uganda.

Habitat and Range

Wild African greys live in dense lowland forest, forest edges, clearings and even mangroves and plantations in some areas. They roost in groups in tall trees and travel long distances to feed. In East Africa, populations survive in Uganda's forests and the Kakamega Forest in western Kenya, and they have been reported on the islands of Lake Victoria. Their reliance on large old trees for nesting links them closely to intact forest.

Diet and Behaviour

Greys feed on fruits, seeds, nuts and flowers, with oil-palm fruit an important food in some regions. They feed in the canopy and are quiet while eating, so they can be present without being noticed. Flocks leave their roosts at dawn and return at dusk, often calling in flight. These flights are the easiest time to see them. Wild greys also mimic other sounds in the forest, and their varied whistles and squawks can confuse birders.

Intelligence and Social Life

Greys are among the most intelligent birds studied, capable of learning large vocabularies and solving problems. In the wild they live in flocks, form strong pair bonds and nest in tree cavities, laying a small clutch. Chicks are slow to develop and depend on parents for months. This slow reproduction makes populations susceptible to harvest and habitat loss.

Threats and Conservation

The species is endangered and receives the highest level of international trade protection. Millions of birds were taken from the wild for the pet trade in past decades, and many died in transit. Forest clearing for farming, logging and charcoal also reduces habitat. Conservation work includes anti-trafficking enforcement, community education, protection of nesting trees and sanctuaries for confiscated birds. Travellers should never buy wild-caught parrots.

Where to See Wild Grey Parrots

Seeing them takes patience. Forests such as Budongo, Mabira and the islands of Lake Victoria are among the places where greys occur in Uganda, and a visit to Mabira Forest or the Ssese Islands combines forest and lake scenery. Watch for flocks at dawn and dusk, and ask local guides about roost sites. Kibale and Semuliki offer other forest birds on the same walks. See the Uganda bird checklist.

Photography and Related Species

Greys are shy and high, so patience, a long lens and flight silhouettes are realistic goals. Do not use recorded calls to attract them. See safari photography tips and responsible travel. Related forest birds include turacos and hornbills.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team