Quick answer
African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are birds found across Africa. One of the most intelligent talking birds. Adults typically weigh 400–500 g (0.9–1.1 lb), reach speeds of 50 km/h (30 mph) in flight, and live 40–60 years. They feed on herbivore (seeds, nuts, fruit) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The lowland rainforests of central and western Africa, across the Congo Basin.
Key takeaway
African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are birds found across Africa. One of the most intelligent talking birds. Adults typically weigh 400–500 g (0.9–1.1 lb), reach speeds of 50 km/h (30 mph) in flight, and live 40–60 years. They feed on herbivore (seeds, nuts, fruit) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The lowland rainforests of central and western Africa, across the Congo Basin.
African Grey Parrot overview
African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is an bird listed here as Endangered. Typical weight 400–500 g (0.9–1.1 lb); lifespan around 40–60 years.
African Grey Parrot ecology
Diet: Herbivore (seeds, nuts, fruit). Habitat: Lowland tropical rainforest. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
African Grey Parrots and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild african grey parrots are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Endangered. See the full African Grey Parrot profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
African Grey Parrots inhabit The lowland rainforests of central and western Africa, across the Congo Basin. Their preferred habitat includes lowland tropical rainforest, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult african grey parrots typically measure about 0.33 m in length and weigh 400–500 g (0.9–1.1 lb). They can sprint at 50 km/h (30 mph) in flight when hunting or escaping predators. African Grey Parrots are known for one of the most intelligent talking birds — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
African Grey Parrot FAQs
What are key facts about african grey parrots?
African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are birds found across Africa. One of the most intelligent talking birds. Adults typically weigh 400–500 g (0.9–1.1 lb), reach speeds of 50 km/h (30 mph) in flight, and live 40–60 years. They feed on herbivore (seeds, nuts, fruit) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The lowland rainforests of central and western Africa, across the Congo Basin.
What is the scientific name of the african grey parrot?
Psittacus erithacus — used in research and conservation listings for african grey parrots.
What do african grey parrots eat?
African Grey Parrots eat seeds, nuts and fruit, with seasonal and regional variation in Lowland tropical rainforest.
Where do african grey parrots live?
They are associated with Lowland tropical rainforest. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of african grey parrots?
Listed in our guides as Endangered. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.