Scientists who study African grey parrots have been amazed at what these birds can do. In experiments, they have learned to count, identify colours and shapes, and use words to ask for things they want. A famous grey parrot called Alex, studied for 30 years by scientist Irene Pepperberg, could name 50 objects, recognise numbers up to 6, and even expressed emotions. When Alex said 'I love you' to the scientist, it was hard to know if he meant it.
In the wild, African greys are social birds that live in flocks and roost in huge noisy groups at night. They use their extraordinary intelligence to find food, remember where fruit trees are bearing fruit, and navigate through the forest. They eat mostly fruit, nuts, seeds and berries, using their strong curved beaks to crack even very hard shells.
African grey parrots form strong pair bonds — they often mate for life, raising chicks together in a hollow tree. They are devoted parents, with both the male and female taking turns to feed and protect the chicks. Young parrots stay with their parents for a long time, learning the social behaviour and food-finding skills they will need as adults.
African greys are highly threatened by the illegal pet trade — they are among the most captured and sold birds in the world because of their intelligence and talking ability. Cameroon is an important country for their conservation, and laws protecting them have been strengthened. The best place to see them is in the wild, swooping over forest canopy at dusk in noisy, fast-moving flocks.