The Timneh African Grey Parrot (Psittacus timneh), often called TAG, is a highly intelligent, medium-sized parrot known for its advanced talking ability and strong problem-solving skills. Native to West Africa, including Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Côte d’Ivoire, the Timneh African Grey is slightly smaller and darker than its cousin, the Congo African Grey.
Timneh African Greys are prized for their affectionate nature, adaptability, and quiet confidence, making them suitable for experienced bird owners seeking a lifelong, engaging companion.
Timneh African Grey Characteristics
Size: 9–11 inches (23–28 cm) in length.
Weight: 275–400 grams.
Lifespan: 40–50+ years with proper care.
Color: Dark grey feathers, pale facial mask, maroon tail feathers, horn-colored upper beak.
Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, calm, and adaptable.
Timneh African Grey Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Timneh African Grey Parrots are highly intelligent and emotionally sensitive, capable of learning words, phrases, and mimicking household sounds with remarkable accuracy.
They are affectionate and social yet often more adaptable to new situations and less prone to stress than Congo African Greys. Timnehs form strong bonds with their owners and appreciate daily interaction but are also capable of entertaining themselves with toys when alone.
Like all African Greys, they require mental stimulation, training, and enrichment to prevent boredom-related issues such as feather plucking.
Diet and Feeding
Timneh African Greys require a balanced, varied diet to thrive:
Pellets: High-quality pellets should form the base of their diet.
Fresh vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, sweet potatoes.
Fruits (in moderation): Apples, berries, mango, papaya.
Calcium sources: Cuttlebone and dark leafy greens to prevent deficiencies.
Fresh, clean water daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and foods high in fat, salt, or sugar.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: At least 32” x 23” x 36” with ¾ inch bar spacing; larger enclosures are ideal for exercise and enrichment.
- Exercise: 3–4 hours of supervised out-of-cage time daily.
- Enrichment: Chew toys, puzzle feeders, training sessions, and foraging activities to stimulate their intelligent minds.
- Social needs: Regular human interaction and talking sessions to maintain their mental health.
- Hygiene: Frequent cage cleaning and opportunities for bathing or misting.
- Veterinary care: Annual avian vet visits to monitor health and nutrition.
Common Health Problems
Timneh African Grey Parrots may face:
- Feather plucking: Often due to stress, boredom, or lack of stimulation.
- Calcium deficiencies: Leading to weak bones and potential seizures if not addressed.
- Respiratory infections: From drafts or poor air quality.
- Psittacosis: A bacterial infection transmissible to humans.
Watch for changes in droppings, appetite, feather condition, or behavior, and seek prompt avian veterinary care if needed.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $1,200–$3,000 USD depending on breeder quality, region, and age.
- Where to buy:
- Ethical breeders who hand-raise and socialize chicks.
- Avian specialty stores with clear health documentation.
- Parrot rescues and adoption organizations for those interested in rehoming.
Note: Timneh African Greys are listed under CITES protections, requiring legal documentation in many regions.
Are Timneh African Grey Parrots Good Pets?
Timneh African Greys are outstanding pets for experienced owners seeking an intelligent, affectionate, and slightly more adaptable companion than a Congo African Grey.
They are quieter and less prone to stress while still being excellent talkers.
They require daily attention, training, and enrichment to thrive.
Conservation Note
Timneh African Greys are vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal trapping for the pet trade. Always support captive-bred, ethical sources or adoption to contribute to conservation and responsible ownership.