Can You Buy an African Grey Parrot?

A Complete Expert Guide to Legal, Ethical, and Responsible Ownership

The African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is one of the most intelligent bird species in the world—often compared to a 4- to 6-year-old child in problem-solving ability and emotional sensitivity. Their remarkable ability to mimic human speech and form deep emotional bonds makes them one of the most sought-after pet parrots globally.

But here’s the critical question: Can you actually buy an African Grey Parrot?

The short answer is yes—but with legal, ethical, and welfare considerations that every potential owner must understand before purchasing or adopting one. This guide explains how, where, and under what conditions you can legally and responsibly acquire an African Grey.

1. Legal Status of African Grey Parrots

A. International Protection under CITES

African Greys are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
This means:

• Wild-caught African Greys cannot be traded internationally for commercial purposes.
• Only captive-bred birds from licensed breeders can be sold or exported, and they must have official CITES documentation.

B. Regional and National Laws

The legal status of buying an African Grey depends on your country:

Tip: Always request CITES documentation and breeder permits before purchasing. Owning a parrot without proper papers can lead to heavy fines or confiscation.

2. Where You Can Buy an African Grey Parrot

If you decide to bring an African Grey into your life, it’s essential to obtain one ethically and legally. Here are the approved options:

A. Certified Avian Breeders

Reputable breeders provide hand-raised, socialized, and legally bred African Greys.

What to Look For:

• CITES and local breeding permits
• Clean, well-maintained aviary environment
• Healthy chicks (clear eyes, active behavior, no feather loss)
• References or reviews from other buyers

Examples:

• American Federation of Aviculture (AFA) Breeder Directory
• AvianBiotech-certified breeders
• Registered members of the Parrot Society UK

Experience: I recommend visiting the breeder in person. A responsible breeder will gladly show you the parents, provide DNA sexing papers, and discuss diet and socialization.

B. Rescue and Adoption Centers

Many African Greys end up in rescues due to their long lifespan (up to 60 years) and demanding care.

Benefits of Adoption:

• Gives a second chance to a displaced parrot
• Often less expensive than buying from a breeder
• Birds are usually vetted and behaviorally assessed

Trusted Sources:

• The Gabriel Foundation (USA)
• World Parrot Refuge
• Parrot Rescue Centre UK

Ethical Insight: Adoption is often the best choice for first-time parrot owners—it helps reduce demand for commercial breeding and supports welfare organizations.

C. Licensed Pet Stores (With Caution)

Some specialized avian stores sell captive-bred African Greys. However, many commercial pet stores lack the proper expertise in parrot care.

Ensure the store:

• Can show valid CITES certificates
• Offers DNA sexing results
• Provides detailed diet and care guidance
• Allows health inspection before purchase

Avoid stores that display parrots in cramped cages, clipped wings, or show stress behaviors (fluffed feathers, lethargy, feather plucking).

3. How Much Does an African Grey Parrot Cost?

The cost varies depending on location, breeder reputation, and subspecies.

Additional ownership costs:

• Cage and setup: $500 – $1,000
• Food and toys (annual): $400 – $800
• Vet care (annual): $150 – $500
• DNA testing and microchipping: $50 – $100

Owning an African Grey is a long-term investment—both financially and emotionally.

4. Ethical and Welfare Considerations

A. Avoid Wild-Caught Birds

Wild African Greys have suffered devastating population declines due to trapping and deforestation. Purchasing wild-caught birds supports illegal trade and leads to stress, trauma, and early death.

B. Understand Their Needs

Before buying, ensure you can meet these needs:

• Daily mental stimulation (to prevent boredom)
• Large cage with flight space
• Fresh diet of pellets, vegetables, and fruits
• 2–4 hours of human interaction daily
• Regular vet checkups

C. Long Lifespan Commitment

African Greys can live 40–60 years in captivity. They require lifelong care and may outlive their owners. Responsible ownership includes future care planning in case of illness or death.

Professional Advice: If you travel frequently or lack time, consider volunteering with rescue parrots before committing to ownership.

5. Red Flags When Buying an African Grey

Avoid sellers who:

• Offer “cheap” birds or refuse to show permits
• Cannot provide breeder information or DNA proof
• Ship birds without welfare guarantees
• Keep parrots in poor conditions or overcrowded cages

If something feels off, report the seller to your local wildlife authority or CITES enforcement office.

Conclusion

Yes, you can buy an African Grey Parrot, but it must be done legally, ethically, and with full understanding of the responsibility involved.

These intelligent, emotionally complex birds are not just pets—they are lifelong companions that demand care, respect, and intellectual engagement.

In summary:

• Only buy captive-bred African Greys with legal papers.
• Prefer adoption or reputable breeders.
• Be prepared for decades of responsibility and emotional connection.

By following legal and ethical practices, you ensure the well-being of your bird—and help protect one of the most remarkable species on Earth.

References and Trusted Sources

• CITES – Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – African Grey Parrot Regulations
• World Parrot Trust – African Grey Conservation and Care
• Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) – Avian Welfare and Captive Breeding Guidelines
• Ritchie, B. W., Harrison, G. J., & Harrison, L. R. (2022). Avian Medicine: Principles and Application.