Meeting African Grey later this month.....what should I look for/be aware of?

[palmetto941]

I plan on meeting an African Grey later this month....Hoping she's the one!!! She is a rescue 12-14 years old. The rescue said: Yes she is hormonal, (almost all Greys are) she warms up to lost anyone quickly, she is about 12-14 yrs old. She is a bit of a feather barberer but she is a really calm sweet girl!
Anything I should be looking for/aware of? Looking for any advice here.....
What happens with hormonal birds? Feather barberer? What will I need to keep an African Grey happy???
Thanks,
jo

 

[Blueridge]

You'll need a lot to keep an African Grey happy.. Research as much as you can.

I don't know what a feather barberer is but it might mean she plucks her feathers.

Remember adopting an African Grey is like adopting a toddler so be prepared!

Good luck!

 

[torrap]

Do you know if she is a Congo African Grey or a Timneh African Grey?
Usually Timneh AGs are adjusting a bit better to a new environment.
It really depends on a specific bird. The best is to give your new bird some time to look around her new surroundings and let her feel comfortable before trying to pick her up or play with her.
I don't want to scare you, but Blueridge is right, TAGs and CAGs do need a lot of interaction, toys and activities to keep them busy. They are very intelligent birds and need to occupy their brains.
I would find out why this AG is plucking her feathers. That would be my first concern. The most common reason is because people had no time for her. In this case, she could stop plucking when you provide a lot of attention to her. Find out about her diet also.
Do as much poking into present owners as you can.
It's a very nice thing to do to adopt an older bird (she is not old, but she is not a baby either.... ) and to provide good conditions for her. They usually are very happy to pay you back with lots of love.
If you have any questions, that's what this forum is for. There are many CAG and TAG owners who will be happy to help.
Good luck!

 

[Katiejayne]

Congratulations on finding a bird to adopt. I would just second what everyone else has said they need a lot of time and stimulation but these don't necessarily have to be expensive toys I make my own toys from various things.
Good luck meeting her

 

[palmetto941]

This is the same rescue group that Bruce V. adopted his blue and gold macaw Simba from. They have a lot of bird sense/knowledge. I did tell them my bird experience and the lifestyle I have. They seem to think Eddie the female African Gray would be a good match.....I sure I'll find out more when I do the meet & greet!