#african grey bird noises

[cheeriecherrymain]

Headcannons you say? 👀 why not how Viktor would react to reader's lotal pet bird! Especially if it cawed out his name everytime he passed?? Only if you're comfortable with this, much love <3

My cousin has an african grey parrot, whose name I have lovingly reused for this.

Viktor x fem!Reader

-He doesn’t know you have a bird until you’re comfortable enough to visit each other’s homes.

-You’ve probably brought him (and Jayce) lunch at the lab a couple times, and he seemed to enjoy the meal, so you figured it might be nice to invite him over for dinner sometime. The two of you are always running out of time during your conversations, interrupted by school or work, so an evening together sounds nice.

-The first time he walks into your home, he’s generally polite. You’re a student, so like him, you don’t have much money to spend on decor items - but he doesn’t judge. He can smell whatever you’ve been cooking, so it’s kind of the only thing on his mind.

-Until something screeches from the other room.

-He’s visibly alarmed by the noise, whereas you’re perfectly calm. You’d heard that too, right? He wonders, hoping he’s not losing his mind.

-You disappear from the room, and he can vaguely hear you speaking softly, but he’s not able to decipher what you’re saying…

-But you return moments later, with what looks like a plucked chicken standing on your shoulder.

-And he must be making some kind of expression, because you reach forward suddenly and pinch his cheek. 

- “Don’t stare at her,” you scold, without a single hint of malice in your tone. “She’s shy.”

-As if on cue, the bird twitters softly and climbs behind your neck, poking her head out slightly so she can stare at him. Viktor feels incredibly judged, despite the fact that it’s a bird and an incredibly weird one at that.

- “Her name is Peach,” you explain, settling the table while the little creature balances happily on your shoulder. “Some rich bastard kept her in a tiny cage for years - she was so stressed that she pulled all her feathers out. As soon as she wasn’t colourful, she was abandoned…”

-Viktor watches as the little bird presses her beak against your cheek and makes a dramatic kissing noise, and his heart warms. Of course you’d be the one to see some sad creature and decide to help it; you saw the value in every life you stumbled upon. Much like you had with him.

-He was no plucked parrot, mind you, but he wasn’t unaware of the fact that most of the students at the academy -if not most of the people in Piltover- looked down on him. Because of his roots, because of his disabilities.

-But not you.

-You’d stumbled into the lab one afternoon, looking for Jayce (you’d somehow ended up with some of his mail. ‘Again’, according to you) and had started up a conversation with him instead.

-You’d shown a genuine interest in what he was working on, asking how things worked, and even offering a little bit of advice on why some components may not have been functioning. He’d been a little peeved at first, because who the hell were you to walk in there and criticize his designs?

-But then your ideas had worked and he’d been a little less annoyed. And then you’d come back a week later, once again looking for Jayce, once again striking up a chat with him. You’d eventually stopped bringing mail with you, and just started showing up to loiter and talk to him.

-Soon enough, he considered you a friend.

-Soon enough, he noticed the way his heart sped up whenever you were around.

-Soon enough, you apparently trusted him enough to introduce him to your strange little bird.

-He doesn’t get along with Peach at first. He’s rightfully wary of how protective she is of you, despite her being a parrot. She’s grabbed and chewed on his fingers on multiple occasions - whenever he got too touchy with you, really.

-If it wasn’t for Peach, he would have told you how he felt by now; he would have held your hand, or kissed your cheek, or something.

-It all comes to a head when he’s over at your house again, and you suddenly have to run to the kitchen to keep the stew from boiling over.

-Leaving him alone with Peach.

-Who glares at him with her beady little eyes.

-And he sighs.

-He reaches forward slowly, and offers his hand to the little bird, who surprisingly takes the invitation and steps into his palm.

- “Look,” he says quietly, bringing her up to eye level, “I know you do not like me very much. You bite me, and you hiss at me, and you steal my food. But I know you’re just protective of your mother.”

-With his other hand, he slowly strokes over the few feathers still on her head. “I know you love her dearly; I love her dearly, too. She’s kind, and caring, and smart. Perhaps, if you are amicable, we might be able to share her affection?”

-He hears a giggle from the doorway, and all at once he realizes how absurd he must look - talking to a bald parrot, professing his love, of all things.

-But instead of poking fun at him, you instead find a seat beside him on the couch, and lean over to press your lips onto his cheek a couple times. -It still takes a while after that for Peach to truly warm up to him, but eventually, whenever she hears the tap of his cane on the hardwood floors, she squawks his name and puts up a fuss until he comes over to offer her his shoulder to perch on.

[katapotato55]

if you are at someone's home and they tell you not to do something to their pet: DON'T DO IT

i have a rescue African grey named Archemedies. not going to get into to much detail, but he is an abuse survivor who was never properly trained. As the years go by i slowly but surely train him the basics such as stepping up and color, he has made so much progress and i am proud of him! but one thing: he prefers noises over words. he can still talk, but he would rather mimic the fire detector than say words. it's just who he is. and my pet peeve: DO NOT WHISTLE IN THE HOUSE Two reasons one: it messes up his training. i use certain tones of whistling and noises to teach him tricks and what not to do. you do that and he gets confused Second: i am going to hear whatever noise you give him for the next 50 years. no that is not an exaggeration. 10 years ago our smoke detectors broke and would beep. after we replaced them they would keep beeping, so we kept getting new ones thinking they were faulty. long story short our "smoke detector" just did it randomly because he thought it was amusing to see the humans randomly get up confused as to why it was beeping again. every time people whistle at archemedies, i have to listen to the past 20-ish years worth of noises i trained him not to constantly scream for a week. respect owner's wishes. yes i know you see cute whistling birds on you tube, but chances are the caretaker of the actual bird knows more about their own pet than you do.

also here is a picture of him considering it is the law of the internet to pay your pet image based taxes.

[willowwillowbun]

My African grey Grayson passed away suddenly last night. I am so lost. Never have I felt such a deep connection with an animal, and never did I think it would be a bird. He was such a beautiful, old soul, and he didn't deserve the lot he was given before me. I'm just grateful to have found him and given him the most loving adoring home for his last year and a half of life.

Grayson, I miss you more than words can express. I cannot look at your cage without breaking down. I cannot stand the silence where you used to make noises and talk to me. I love you so much and I will see you again someday. In your honor I will rescue another grey when my heart is ready.

As you always said to me on the daily as I walked out the door, "see ya later".

[aniseandspearmint]

Every time I see you tag “pretty pretty” I get this really conflicted feeling. Like, I get that you’re doing that reduplication thing because the stuff you use that tag with are super pretty. But my mom’s family is non-American and where she’s from “pretty pretty” is slang for something that tries so hard to be pretty that it ends up tacky or gaudy.

(This isn’t me asking you to use different tags, btw. You tag really well and I appreciate it; I’ve just been thinking this for a while and had to get it off my chest.)

Oh, it's not a problem, knowing what other people think is interesting.

Why I started tagging things 'pretty pretty' rather than a singular 'pretty' or 'pretty things' or something like that comes from a childhood memory. This'll be slightly convoluted, sorry! XD

When I was a kid my mother raised and sold parakeets and parrots! We were also often a kind of half way house for birds people were having trouble rehoming (like the amazon parrot that screamed obscenities when she didn't get what she wanted, or the one african grey that made a DISTURBING amount of hyper realistic bodily function noises :/).

Mostly what she raised were Quakers, which are fun little parrots that, if you play your cards right are SUPER easy to teach some stock phrases to while you're hand rearing them. (Sadly they are illegal where i live now, or I would be looking into getting a few. I miss them).

My mom taught them; 'i love you!' 'up! up!' 'kisses! *exaggerated mmmWAH sound*' and 'pretty pretty!' which they would repeat in disgustingly cute squeaky little voices. They were VERY popular at the couple of decent pet shops my mom sold to (one of the things that prompted her getting out of the bird business was us moving and her not being able to vet more good shops. That and she suddenly developed a mild allergy to seed chaff).

For some reason, the 'pretty pretty!' more than anything else, caught on with all the other birds in the house. So nearly every bird, no matter what it came in knowing, would move on cheerfully yelling/chirping 'pretty pretty!'.

Parrots are smart, they caught on to the meaning of the words pretty quickly and started yelling 'pretty pretty! pretty pretty!' whenever they saw something brightly colored or shiny. Including me in some of my glittery play clothes. So i'd be running around the house in a sparkly tulle skirt waving an old pompom taped to a cardboard tube around and they'd all start yelling. It's a happy memory. ^__^

I started using the tag on fashion pics, bc it reminded me, and that sort of just migrated into a catch all tag for stuff i find warm and fuzzy levels of pretty.

[my-amazing-nerdyness]

As a person who owns an African grey, they know what they are crazy funny birds. Mine curses, makes chicken noises, and screeches like a demon coming out of hell every time he sees me approach as a greeting. He will then wait for me to screech back and then we will have a conversation back and forth.

[tiktokparrot]

Do African Grey Parrots Dream?

Ever wondered if African Grey Parrots dream? Discover the science, behavior, and adorable quirks behind your parrot's sleep and possible dream adventures!

[marklofie]

Everything You Need to Know About the Dusky Conure (Dusky-Headed Conure)

Introduction

Dusky conures, also known as dusky-headed conures (Aratinga Weddellii), are beautiful and fascinating parrot species popular among bird enthusiasts and pet owners. These small-to-medium-sized birds are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, specifically found in regions of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Known for their playful personalities and striking appearance, they make excellent pets for bird lovers. In this article, we will delve into everything there is to know about the dusky conure, including its natural habitat, physical characteristics, care requirements, and more.

Natural Habitat and Distribution of Dusky Conures

The dusky conure or dusky-headed conure thrives in the humid lowland rainforests of the Amazon Basin. These birds are typically found at elevations of up to 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) above sea level, residing in both primary and secondary forests. In the wild, they prefer the canopy layer of the forest, where they can forage for fruits, seeds, and vegetation while remaining relatively safe from predators.

Dusky conures live in large flocks, sometimes consisting of 30 or more individuals, allowing them to socialize and stay protected. The group dynamics help them navigate through their habitat as they travel in search of food and shelter. Flocks of dusky-headed conures are a common sight in the treetops of South American forests.

Physical Characteristics of the Dusky Conure

The dusky conure is a visually appealing bird with distinct characteristics that set it apart from other conure species. Adult dusky-headed conures measure around 11 to 12 inches in length, including their tail, and weigh between 90 and 120 grams. Their average lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years with proper care, although some individuals may live longer in captivity.

The plumage of the dusky conure is primarily green, with subtle variations in shading across its body. Its name comes from its unique head coloration, which is a soft grayish-brown or dusky hue. The head contrasts with the vibrant green feathers on the wings and body, making the bird easily recognizable. They also have splashes of blue feathers on the flight feathers, tail, and wings, further enhancing their striking appearance.

Another feature of the dusky-headed conure is its bare, pale skin around the eyes, often referred to as the “eye ring,” which is surrounded by bright, expressive eyes. Their beaks are dark and slightly curved, ideal for cracking seeds and nuts.

Dusky Conure Behavior and Personality

Dusky conures are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are social birds that thrive on interaction, making them ideal pets for individuals or families who are willing to devote time and attention to their care. These birds are playful, energetic, and curious, often exploring their surroundings and engaging with toys and activities in their environment.

Due to their highly social nature, dusky-headed conures bond strongly with their owners. In captivity, they require regular interaction and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. They are known to be affectionate birds that enjoy sitting on their owners' shoulders or being involved in daily activities. Their friendly disposition makes them easy to train, and they can learn a variety of tricks and behaviors through positive reinforcement methods.

While dusky conures are not as vocal as some other parrot species, they are still capable of producing a range of sounds. Their calls tend to be loud and high-pitched, which is typical of many conures, but they are less prone to constant screaming or excessive noise. Some dusky-headed conures may learn to mimic words or sounds, though they are not known for being expert talkers compared to other parrots like African greys or cockatiels.

Housing and Cage Requirements for Dusky Conures

One of the most important aspects of dusky conure care is providing them with a suitable living environment. As active birds, dusky conures require a spacious cage that allows them to move around freely and exercise. The minimum cage size recommended for a dusky-headed conure is 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 30 inches high, with bar spacing of no more than ¾ of an inch to prevent escape or injury.

Within the cage, it is essential to provide plenty of perches, toys, and activities to keep the bird entertained and mentally stimulated. Conures enjoy chewing, climbing, and exploring, so a variety of bird-safe toys, swings, ladders, and foraging materials should be available. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom.

Dusky conures also need time outside of their cage to exercise and socialize. It is recommended to allow them at least a few hours of supervised out-of-cage time each day to fly, stretch their wings, and interact with their owners. A safe, bird-proofed area should be provided for this purpose, as these curious birds may explore electrical cords, furniture, or other potentially hazardous objects.

Diet and Nutrition for Dusky Conures

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial to keeping dusky conures healthy. In the wild, these birds feed on a variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetation. In captivity, it is essential to replicate this diverse diet to ensure proper nutrition.

A high-quality commercial pellet should form the foundation of a dusky conure's diet. Pellets are specially formulated to provide essential vitamins and minerals, reducing the risk of nutritional deficiencies. However, pellets alone are not enough, and they should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seeds.

Dusky-headed conures enjoy a wide variety of fresh produce, including leafy greens (like kale, spinach, and lettuce), carrots, peppers, apples, berries, and citrus fruits. It is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and remove any seeds or pits that may be harmful to birds. Additionally, nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews can be offered as occasional treats.

Seed mixes can also be part of their diet but should be given in moderation, as conures may selectively eat seeds and neglect other foods, leading to imbalances. Fresh water should always be available, and food and water dishes should be cleaned daily to prevent contamination.

Health and Common Issues in Dusky Conures

Like all pets, dusky conures are susceptible to certain health issues. By providing a clean environment, a proper diet, and regular veterinary care, many of these problems can be avoided. However, it is important to be aware of some common health concerns that can affect dusky-headed conures.

Feather Plucking: One of the most prevalent issues among conures is feather plucking, where the bird starts pulling out its feathers. This can be caused by various factors, including stress, boredom, malnutrition, or medical conditions. Ensuring mental stimulation, providing a healthy diet, and creating a stress-free environment can help prevent feather plucking.

Respiratory Infections: Dusky conures are prone to respiratory infections, which can be caused by poor air quality, drafts, or exposure to cold temperatures. Signs of respiratory illness include wheezing, sneezing, discharge from the nostrils, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms appear, a visit to an avian vet is necessary.

Psittacosis: This bacterial infection, also known as parrot fever, can affect conures and other parrot species. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci and can lead to respiratory distress, lethargy, and diarrhea. Psittacosis is contagious to humans, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Regular vet check-ups are important to detect any health issues early. It is also vital to monitor your dusky conure for any changes in behavior, appetite, or physical appearance, as these can indicate underlying health problems.

Breeding and Reproduction of Dusky Conures

Breeding dusky-headed conures in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for experienced bird breeders. These birds reach sexual maturity around two to three years of age, and successful breeding requires the right conditions, including proper housing, diet, and care.

A nesting box should be provided in the breeding cage, as conures prefer enclosed spaces to lay their eggs. The female typically lays between three and five eggs, which she will incubate for about 23 to 26 days. During this time, the male may assist by feeding the female and guarding the nest.

Once the chicks hatch, they will be dependent on their parents for food and warmth for several weeks. It is crucial to ensure that the breeding pair is well-nourished during this period, as the health of the chicks depends on the parents' condition. Hand-rearing the chicks may be necessary in some cases, especially if the parents are inexperienced or unable to care for them properly.

Dusky Conures as Pets: Pros and Cons

Like all pets, dusky conures come with their own set of advantages and challenges. Before bringing one into your home, it's essential to consider whether they are the right fit for your lifestyle and expectations.

Pros:

Affectionate and Social: Dusky conures are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, making them great companions for those willing to spend time with them.

Moderate Noise Levels: While they can be vocal, dusky-headed conures are generally quieter than other conure species, which is a plus for apartment dwellers or people sensitive to noise.

Playful and Energetic: These birds are highly active and playful, providing hours of entertainment with their antics and curiosity.

Cons:

Attention Requirements: Dusky conures need daily interaction and mental stimulation, which can be demanding for owners with busy schedules.

Potential for Biting: Like many parrots, conures may resort to biting if they feel threatened or neglected. Proper training and socialization are essential to prevent this behavior.

Long Lifespan: Dusky-headed conures can live for several decades, so owning one is a long-term commitment that requires ongoing care and attention.

Conclusion

Dusky conures or dusky-headed conures are delightful and engaging birds that can make wonderful pets for the right owner. Their friendly nature, moderate noise levels, and playful personalities make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. However, they require a significant amount of time, attention, and care to thrive. By understanding their needs and providing a proper environment, nutrition, and mental stimulation, you can enjoy many years of companionship with these charming birds.

[ceorien]

List of characters - BY CEORIEN (will be updated)

**PROTAGONIST**

Atlas - Old name: Raven.

17 years old | October 18 2202

Vietnamese

Skills: Marksmanship, Intelligence, Strength, Agility, Knife work.

Description: Black hair, grey eyes, pale face, defined face, short hair, Snake tattoo on arm.

Likes: Food, Art, Carving, Pottery, Nature, green.

Dislikes: Royalty, The Government (Apec.), Midas, Physical touch, Alcohol.

No love interest

Weaknesses: Trauma, emotional pain.

Personality: ISTJ

Breeze (Bree) Kit

18 years old | December 25 2201

Scottish

Relationship: Best friends. Neighbors.

Scottish Accent

Skills: Techie/coder, Quick witted, patience, intelligent, sarcasm.

Description: Tan, tall girl about 6’1, Blonde hair, Green eyes, short hair(wolfcut), dyed hair(green), freckles, a bit chubby.

Likes: Games, Food, Architecture, Acting

Dislikes: Liars, the government.

Love interest: Erik

Weakness: Asthma, overthinking.

Personality:INTP

Erik Hugh

18 years old | May 16 2201

British

Slight accent

Relationship: Best friend

Skills: Motorcyclist, mechanic, designer.

Description: Brown hair, muscular, square jaw, tall 6’3, scars on mouth, legs, and arms.

Likes: Cars, Exploring, talking, singing.

Dislikes: Explosions, his dad, obnoxious people.

Weakness: His dad, loud noises.

Personality: ENTP

Jackie Dolores Amarin

17 years old | April 4th 2202

Filipino mixed with Thai

Slight Filipino accent

Relationship: Childhood friend

Skills: Great eater, marksmanship, communication(polyglot - Thai, English, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Japanese, A bit of latin.), super smart, quick learner.

Description: Tan skin, light brown eyes, black hair, slanted eyes, small mark on lips (scar from childhood), skinny, 5’8.

Likes: Food, friends, family, music, games, learning.

Dislikes: Depression

Weakness: Adorable thing

No love interests

Personality: ESFP

-

**ANTAGONIST**

Royal family

Apec

Midas

19 years old | February 6 2200

Indian

No accent

Relationship: Brother, enemy

Skills: Manipulation, acting, intelligence, leadership, fast, strong.

Description: Tall 6’4, White, dirty blonde, scar on his face(by Atlas), defined jaw, noble outfits.

Likes: Despair, action, fear, blood, power.

Dislikes: Atlas, weak people, birds.

Weakness: Anger issues, psychotic, self conscious.

Personality: INTJ

No love interest

Fern Diaz

22 years old | October 17 2197

Hispanic | Dominican Republic

Relationship: Assistant

Skills: Smart, combat trained, experienced with knives and other equipment.

Description: Short 5’1, red slim glasses, tidied bun, black hair, black finger nails, wears heels.

Likes: Black, knives, food, clean spaces.

Dislikes: Idiots, traitors.

Love interest: Midas

Weakness: Loyal.

Personality: INFP

Thomas Derek

19 years old | June 10 2200

African | Zulu

Relationship: Right man

Skills: Hacker, high intelligent, manipulative, super strength and speed, strong willed, skilled hand to hand combat, gun skills, knives, etc.

Description: Black curly hair, green eyes (hint of gold), diamond face, muscular body, scars on back, birthmark on arms.

Likes: Fighters, food, respect

Dislikes: Weaker people

Weakness: Trust issues

Personality: ISTP

Love interest: Atlas

[ben1d]

The Complete Truth About Parrots as Pets: What You Need to Know

Parrots, known for their vibrant plumage and remarkable intelligence, are captivating creatures that have charmed bird enthusiasts for generations. As potential pet owners, it's vital to uncover the complete truth about parrots as pets to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling companionship. In this brief guide, we will unveil the essential facts and considerations that will help you make an informed decision about welcoming a parrot into your home.

Section 1: Parrot Personality and Characteristics

Parrots are renowned for their vibrant personalities and striking appearances. They exhibit traits like:

a. Intelligence: Parrots are exceptionally intelligent and can learn various tricks and even mimic human speech.

b. Long Lifespan: Parrots have a long lifespan, often living for several decades, which is a long-term commitment.

c. Social Nature: Parrots are social animals that require regular interaction and mental stimulation.

Section 2: Parrot Species Diversity

There are over 400 species of parrots, each with unique characteristics and requirements. Popular species kept as pets include the African Grey, Amazon, Cockatiel, and Budgerigar, among others. Research the specific needs and traits of the species you're interested in to make an informed choice.

Section 3: Parrot Care and Maintenance

Parrot ownership comes with responsibilities, including:

a. Diet: Parrots require a balanced diet of high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of nuts and seeds.

b. Cage and Space: Providing a spacious cage and regular out-of-cage time is essential for their well-being.

c. Mental Stimulation: Parrots need mental stimulation through toys, puzzles, and social interaction to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.

Section 4: Noise Level

One crucial aspect to be aware of is that parrots can be noisy. Their vocalizations, including squawking and mimicking sounds, can be loud and may not be suitable for quiet living environments.

Section 5: Lifelong Commitment

Parrots are a long-term commitment. Some species can live for 50 years or more. Potential owners should be prepared for a lifelong bond and the financial and emotional responsibilities that come with it.

Section 6: Legal Considerations

Check your local regulations regarding parrot ownership. Some species may be protected, and permits might be required in certain regions.

Section 7: Allergies

Parrot feathers and dander can trigger allergies in some individuals. Make sure no one in your household has severe allergies before bringing a parrot home.

Conclusion

Owning a parrot can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the complete truth about parrots as pets. Their intelligence, longevity, and social nature make them unique companions, but they also demand a high level of care and commitment. Before deciding to bring a parrot into your life, thoroughly research the species you're interested in and consider the long-term implications of their care. By understanding what you're getting into, you can create a loving and lasting bond with your feathered friend.

[ravenousnightwind]

Last night there was this kid screaming at Culver's for something. Immediately my response was to Imitate. I did so silently. I guess when you have birds and have adhd and are autistic, it's like yeah loud noises, just copy em. Cuz birds respond to things like that for communication. Lol I caught myself before I actually screamed.

My partner wanted to get outta there and I was like why? He said cuz the kid screaming and I'm like you mean you can handle an African grey scream but not a child's? Lol African greys scream waaaayyy louder than a child, a child's scream is like low key African grey scream. 😂

[icannotgetoverbirds]

When you get this, please respond with five things that make you happy! then, send to your last ten people in your notifs (anonymously). you never know who might benefit from spreading positivity <3

[points like a warm-hearted old feller in a bar] see this one, this one I like. Short and sweet and to the point, though I s'pose ten people might be a bit much for some, so I hope you don't mind if I take the liberty to change it to the last few users instead. Makes it a bit easier t'manage, see?

Okay comedic exaggeration of my southern-ness over. Sit down and buckle up:

It's bird time.

Now this is in no particular order of favoritism or anything like that - I don't think I could ever pick a favorite bird. This'll just be an overview of some of my most beloved species of birds.

Emu -

Have y'all ever seen an emu frolic? It's one of the most beautiful sights I've ever had the joy to behold. And if the emu in question is hand-raised, these cuties are cuddly motherfuckers. Hugging an emu is a 10/10 experience. Watch those beaks, though - they love to peck at anything shiny.

Kakapo -

Look at that glorious bastard. The world's heaviest parrot, these birds are nocturnal and can vocalize in subsonic 'booms' during mating season. Don't wear green around Sirocco, though. Just... don't. Absolutely adorable, would give a little kissie on the forehead if I could.

Great-Tailed Grackle -

I love these little shits, they make the best noises. I thought they were corvids for the longest time, but apparently they're not, unfortunately. Regardless, they have a special place in my heart as the birds of my hometown.

African Grey Parrot -

Ough Alex my beloved. Rest in peace, sweetie. These guys are so smart that Dr. Irene Pepperberg dedicated her career to studying their intelligence. Alex in particular had a massive vocabulary, understood the concept of zero, and was the first recorded nonhuman animal to ask an existential question - he asked his handlers what color he was.

All Corvids -

Goth motherfuckers supreme, smart as fuck, plenty of sass to match. Need I say any more?

[fandomsandfeminism]

Other facts about Spike Jones the parrot, for those who were wondering:

I believe my grandfather named him (after the musician, because he made silly noises) but he went with Mama Jo in the divorce. So he was older than me.

He talked a LOT. His favorite phrase for visitors was "I'm Spike Jones. I'm an African Grey. I can talk. Can you?"

He would make the telephone ring sound if he wanted you to go over to him. (The house phone was in the same room as his enclosure)

He would make the microwave 'ding' noise if he wanted you to leave his room.

He would LAUGH if you did this (he tricked you!)

Mama Jo and Oma had another parrot (a green one who didn't talk) named Margarita. Spike would call her "Margarita Bird Brain" and try to steal her snacks.

You could not wear hats, especially baseball caps, around him or he would throw himself onto the floor and scream. (He was a rescue, so there's probably a very sad story there.)

He did a really good impression of Oma calling my grandma's name from the other room. Apparently it was fairly common for the parrot to go "JoAAAAANNE" and Mama Jo to stop whatever she was doing to see what Oma needed, and Spike would laugh and laugh and laugh.

He would bite, and we were not allowed to hold him. (Again, sad back story is assumed.)

I loved that bird, and he convinced me that I should never, ever, own a parrot. (You want to own a wickedly smart toddler with wings and claws that will live to be 50+ and never stop being a toddler? No. No you don't.)

Yall wanna hear a kinda funny, kinda sad story about my grandmother and hetero-normativity?

Ok, so... when my grandmother was in her 50s (I was an infant), she met a woman at the Unitarian Church. And, as can happen when you meet your soul mate, this event made it impossible for her to deny parts of herself that she had fiercely hidden her whole life.

All the drama- their affair being found out, the divorce with my grandfather, the court battle over who got the house, happened while I was a baby. Even in my earliest memories, it's just Mama Jo and Oma, and my grandfather lived elsewhere (first his own apartment, then a nursing home, then with us.)

But here's the thing- no one ever explained any of this to me. No one ever sat down and was like "hey, Rosie, so do you know what a lesbian is?" It was the 90s. It was Texas. I think my mom was still kinda processing all this, and just assumed that like... I was gonna figure it out. Don't mention it, let it just be normal. Like I think my mom thought that if she explained the situation, she would be making it weird? I dunno.

But like. In the 90s, in all the movies I had seen and books I had read, do you know how many same sex couples I had seen? Like. 0. Do you know how many "platonic best friend/roommates" I had seen? A lot. I had no context, is what I'm saying.

I literally thought this was a Golden Girls, roommates, besties situation until I was like...I dunno, 11? 12?

It was actually their parrot, an African Grey named Spike, imitating my grandmothers voice saying "Johanna, honey, it's getting late", that triggered the MIND BLOWN moment as I realized that *there's only one master bedroom and it only has 1 waterbed* when all the pieces finally clicked.

Anyway. I think it's a real important thing for kids to know queer people exist, for a lot of reasons, but also because kids can be clueless and it's embarrassing to have your grandmother be outted by a parrot because everyone just thought you'd figure it out on your own.

Anyway, here is my grandma and her wife, my Oma, after they moved to Albuquerque to be artsy gay cowboys and live their best life. They helped run a "Lesbian Dude Ranch" out there (basically just with funding and financial support. As Oma has explained "traditionally, most lesbians don't have a lot of money" so they wrote the checks and let the younger ladies actually run the ranch.)

[folktaylor]

family i babysat for has an african grey parrot named...molly

[l3irdl3rain]

i was wondering how you feel about teaching parrots to talk? is there any substance to it? do they actually understand what they’re saying or do they just learn that those vocalizatjons get them treats? is there any risk persay to teaching parrots to talk? i’ve been doing my own research ofc but i was wondering your thoughts if you wouldn’t mind sharing them!

I don’t know of any downsides really? The only one I’ve ever heard people claim is teaching your birds to swear can make it harder to find them a home if they ever have to be rehomed.

I think it’s a good way to socialize with your birds, especially birds that don’t like to be touched. Parrots love to vocalize alone and with their friends. Obviously we’re incapable of mimicking parrot noises, so that really just leaves us with the option of speaking to them.

They obviously don’t fully understand human speech, but they’re definitely capable of recognizing phrases and their “meaning”. I’ve seen this in birds I’ve worked with myself and you can see it all over online as well. My mom’s African grey is extremely intelligent and has a large vocabulary. When he’s nervous we tell him “it’s okay” and now he understands this is a comfort phrase. When he was trying to make friends with my mom’s cockatoo he repeatedly told her “it’s okay” because she kept trying to get away from him. If you upset him he calls you a poopyhead, because he knows that’s what we call him when he’s doing something he shouldn’t be.

Even my mom’s cockatoo, who isn’t capable of a lot of speech, seems to understand and recognize certain phrases we say to her, even if she doesn’t say them back. She does say “hi bird” and “bye bye” and she’s fully capable of using them in the proper context. If I don’t say bye bye to her before I leave my mom’s house she makes sure to yell it at me as I’m going out the door. She never says bye bye when I first enter the house, that’s always “hi bird”

And even birds like Joey, who have a nonexistent vocabulary, still love to be talked to. A lot of birds especially like when you speak loud because they also love to be loud. My dad has a naturally very loud voice and even though Joey would bite him given the chance he also loves if my dad stands nearby and talks to him.

There’s definitely a lot more info you can find online about this topic, this is really just a lot of examples of birds I know personally. Parrots are extremely intelligent, and until you’ve lived/worked with them it can be hard to grasp what that means In my opinion. People telling you “oh they’re so smart” will never prepare you for just how smart they are.

[theramseyloft]

My have had an African Grey for my whole life, and when I move out, I was thinking about getting a pigeon at some point. Would my knowledge of the parrot help with pigeons at all? Is there things that are good with parrots that I have to be wary about with pigeons or vice versa?

Unfortunately, no.

People coming from a parrot background have to unlearn literally everything for pigeon care.

Pigeons are strict granivores, first of all.

They cannot digest anything except seeds.

That's a full 180 from parrots only getting seeds as a very rare treat.

You will severely malnourish a pigeon by trying to feed it like a parrot, please do not!

Pigeons are cliff nesters that need flat perches. Round ones hurt their feet, which is why you don't often see them in trees.

They can't chew, so you don't have to worry about paint on wood or heavy metal poisoning from cage bars like you would with a parrot.

You really don't have to worry about much in the way of property damage.

Pigeons can't climb. They fly and walk, and a pigeon who can fly will consider a ramp to be cluttering up their flight space.

They need more floor space than height. All of their foraging is done on the ground, so that's where they should be fed. And they should have space to do some wandering and poking around.

Hanging toys make an enclosure feel terrifyingly cluttered to a pigeon. They don't like anything to touch their wings in flight, so if something is hanging in their flight space, they just won't attempt to fly.

So an enclosure for a pigeon looks miserably spartan coming from a parrot background.

It's honestly best not to put toys in the sleep cage at all.

Pigeons are cage aggressive by nature, because the life or death need to defend what feels to them like a nest space is hard wired in.

They are extremely social, but only away from their nest.

So instead of having them step up in the cage as I see many parrot owners do, it's best to invite the pigeon out by opening the enclosure door in a safe space.

They do play with toys! Just not the ones parrots like.

Pigeons can recognize themselves in mirrors. A pigeon who has never seen a mirror before figures out very quickly that that is not another bird.

So that's a much more safe enrichment for them than it is for a parrot.

They like baths in shallow pans or casserole dishes

Forage trays can be made using the same thing as a bath, but putting sand, straw, hay, pine needles, or a mix of those in and scattering high value seeds like safflower for them to find.

Pigeons like shiny things and a number of auditory stims.

Their favorite environmental noises are jingling, chimes, and crinkly sounds.

Crinkle mats for kitties are fun to stomp and dance on.

Small wind chimes are fun to peck and make a fun noise.

Jingle bells are shiny and make a fun noise. I like to make bread tie handles for them so the pigeons can more easily puck them up and shake them.

Pigeons like to play house, and blunted tooth picks or q-tips with the tips snipped off are basically pigeon Lego.

Cocks with bring them to you to arrange.

Hens are happy to accept them from you.

Which brings me to laying.

Parrots are opportunistic nesters that pretty much lay when all the conditions are just right.

To my knowledge, they are not harmed by those conditions just not being met.

The only condition for a pigeon to lay is literally to not be physically starving or severely stressed.

They absolutely NEED to be allowed sit full term in order to prevent egg binding!!!

It doesn't have to be their real egg.

They take wooden, plastic, and clay fakes easily.

But if you just take it away without swapping or her nest is not comfortable or doesn't feel safe, she will immediately start a new clutch.

An egg takes 5 days from the hormonal trigger to complete development and be laid.

That is not enough time to recover what she has lost in their production.

Make sure adult hens have sufficient calcium and a safe comfortable nest, and let her sit the full 18 days on a fake.

If she doesn't live with a cock, you can let her set the real egg.

Pigeon flocks are democratic meritocracies that vote on everything they do as a group and compromise when they disagree.

Their response to a leader that ignores their say and makes no attempt to compromise is to refuse to cooperate with that flock mate.

Pigeons see human households as a mixed species flock.

Physical contact does not sexually frustrate pigeons like it does parrots.

Single birds that ask their care taker to cuddle with them will suffer emotional distress if their human refuses.

This is a really broad question, and there may be some things I missed.

Here is the master post for first time pigeon keepers:

https://theramseyloft.tumblr.com/post/667402203113422848/would-it-be-possible-to-arrange-your-pigeon-care

I go into a LOT more detail here.