African Grey Parrots
Psittacus erithacus & Psittacus timneh
Congo • Timneh • Legendary Talkers
IUCN Status
Endangered
The African Grey Parrots — the **Congo African Grey** (Psittacus erithacus) and the **Timneh African Grey** (Psittacus timneh) — are among the most intelligent and talented talking parrots in the world. Both are renowned for their exceptional mimicry, problem-solving ability, and strong bonding with owners.
Formerly considered subspecies of the same bird, they were split into two full species in 2012. The Congo is larger and more common in aviculture, while the Timneh is smaller, darker, and often described as calmer and more adaptable.
Formerly considered subspecies of the same bird, they were split into two full species in 2012. The Congo is larger and more common in aviculture, while the Timneh is smaller, darker, and often described as calmer and more adaptable.
Side-by-Side Comparison
C
Congo African Grey
Psittacus erithacus
| Size | 33–36 cm (13 in) |
| Weight | 400–550 g |
| Tail Color | Bright scarlet red |
| Beak | Solid black |
| Plumage | Light silvery-grey with scalloped edges |
| Personality | Highly intelligent, can be more sensitive/nervous |
| Talking Ability | Exceptional — often learns hundreds of words |
| Range | Central & West Africa (Congo Basin to Kenya) |
T
Timneh African Grey
Psittacus timneh
| Size | 28–32 cm (11 in) |
| Weight | 275–350 g |
| Tail Color | Dark maroon / burgundy |
| Beak | Two-tone (horn/pinkish upper with black tip) |
| Plumage | Darker charcoal-grey |
| Personality | Often calmer, more outgoing, and adaptable |
| Talking Ability | Excellent — tends to start speaking earlier |
| Range | West Africa (Guinea to western Ivory Coast) |
Plumage, Subspecies & Conservation
Congo African Grey is monotypic or has two weakly defined subspecies (including the Príncipe grey parrot). It is the larger, lighter-coloured bird with a vivid red tail.
Timneh African Grey has two recognised subspecies: P. t. timneh and P. t. princeps. It is smaller, darker, and has a darker maroon tail and two-toned beak.
Both species are highly intelligent, long-lived (50–60+ years), and require experienced owners due to their emotional sensitivity and need for mental stimulation.
Congo African Grey • Bright red tail
Congo African Grey
Timneh African Grey
Left: Congo (bright red tail) • Right: Timneh (darker maroon tail & two-toned beak)
Conservation Status:
Endangered (IUCN Red List) — Both species on CITES Appendix I
Psittacus Genus
Central & West Africa
World’s Best Talking Parrots