Many of the most popular domestic parrots are great conversationalists. While the African Grey is said to
be the best of the talkers, several of the Amazons run a close second. And yes, they DO know what they
are saying, at least some of the time. These intelligent birds have an IQ similar to that of a toddler; and in
addition to their ability to talk, they also retain the personality of a petulant little child, for as long as they
live. Definitely something to consider before taking on the "terrible two´s" for life. This can be a blessing, or
a nightmare, depending on the discipline (or lack thereof) and behavioral guidance provided by their human
parents.
My own Congo African Grey, "Maui Jim," is almost ten years old, and has a vocabulary of several hundred words and phrases. He is also a radio star, having appeared on
KIRO, one of our local radio stations. One of his favorite expressions is "Go ahead, make my day" in a
near-perfect imitation of Clint Eastwood´s voice. In addition, Maui has learned to mimic the sound of the
telephone ringing, and then follows with "Hello... Speaking... Thank you... Good-bye," all in a perfect
imitation of my own voice. And on the occasions when he succeeds in sending me running for the
telephone, he will loudly laugh at me in my spouse´s voice. He also yowls like our house cat, then
disciplines the confused kitty by yelling "be quiet." Of course, like a drill sergeant, he rules the roost by
telling all my pet birds when they should "go potty," be happy" and "Don´t bite!" And Grey´s do not just
mimic -- they are capable of identifying objects, shapes, colors, and even responding appropriately in
conversation.
Generally speaking (no pun intended) the best talking parrots are African Greys, and certain Amazons
such as the Double Yellowhead, Blue Front and Yellow Nape. That´s if you need a 500-plus word
vocabulary.
Many of the other parrot species can talk moderately well, and will also entertain you, and themselves,
with their talking abilities. Denise´s Parrot Place carries just about all of the species of the talking parrots,
each one individually hand raised to assure you the finest pet quality in an otherwise independently natured
bird.
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