Are African Greys Loud?(Find Out)
Last Updated on June 15, 2023 by Ali Shahid
African Greys are known for their intelligence and talking capabilities, but how loud are they? Parrots in general can be quite noisy, making them unsuitable as pets for those living in close quarters. But when it comes to African Greys, how do they measure up?
African greys are loud when not provided with proper socialization and playtime. But they are less loud than other parrots such as conures and macaws with a sound level of 70 decibels. The sound of a macaw can reach 120 decibels, whereas the sound of a conure can reach 150 decibels.
It is important to note that African Greys are only loud when left alone, under stress, or not provided with adequate playtime and nutrition. However, African Greys are very talkative birds and they can talk throughout the day.
In this article, I will discuss the various factors that determine just how loud these birds can get. I will also explore ways of controlling noise levels if needed.

How Loud an African Grey Can Be?
African Greys are known for their distinct, raspy calls and chatter. Like a living recorder of your conversations, they can mimic sounds like ringing phones and captivating choruses of other birds. But how loud can these parrots get?
The volume level of an African Grey can range from faint chirps to ear-shattering screeches—it all depends on the environment and training it has received. It might surprise you that some owners report their bird’s screams reaching up to 110 decibels—the same as a chainsaw!
However, with proper care and socialization, these birds typically stay at around 60-70 decibels which is similar to normal conversation levels.
By understanding both what causes loudness in African Greys and providing them with consistent positive reinforcement during training sessions, owners have more control over noise levels.
With good habits established early on, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful sound of your companion without unwelcome surprises.
Do African Greys scream?
Despite being highly talkative, African Greys are less likely to scream than other species. Although they are generally quieter than other parrots, their constant screaming can become obnoxious after a while.
They are more likely to imitate loud noises and sounds if they hear them frequently. Your African Grey will likely scream more if you keep them in a noisy environment.
An African Grey is a hereditary prey animal. While domesticated for a long period, they still possess instincts. As a result of these instincts, they are often loud and shrill in their behavior.
During the day, African Greys will whistle, call, and even screech. If you intend to obtain an African Grey, you should be prepared for loud noises.
Loudness of African Greys in comparison with other parrots
It is generally accepted that African Greys are quieter than other parrot breeds. Although they are among the most effective speakers, their screams are generally not as loud as those of other parrot species.
Among the parrot species, cockatoos are often regarded as being the loudest. Their high-pitched chirping in the wild is known to be extremely loud. The macaw is another noisy parrot.
Generally, they communicate with their flocks by using loud calls. Keeping a Macaw in captivity can result in a dramatic increase in noise levels. Eclectus, Amazon, and Conure parrots produce more noise than African Grey parrots.
The distinctive call of Eclectus parrots is well known. When Eclectus parrots feel jealous or ignored, they will honk loudly. It is well known that Amazon parrots have a remarkable ability to speak, similar to African Greys.
The shrill screams of these creatures are well known. Last but not least, conure parrots possess a high level of vocalization despite their small stature. They are very vocal and do not hesitate to express their emotions through loud shrieks.
Although African Grey parrots tend to scream, they are not as loud as some of their counterparts.
Why African Greys are Loud? | |
Feeling Hungry | They can be very loud if they do not receive food for an extended period. |
Presence of Predators | As we all know, African greys are prey animals. Therefore, if they encounter a predator such as a dog, cat, fox, or other predator animal, they are likely to scream. |
Lonely | As social birds, African greys require a great deal of companionship regularly. When left unattended for an extended period, they can become noisy and destructive |
Need Attention | African greys live in groups among other greys in the wild. If they are separated, they will loudly scream and call out for one another. Their flock members can only be tracked by this method.When your bird screeches, it usually means you’re not in the room and is eager to see you. |
Lack of Stimulation | Additionally, excessive boredom and a lack of stimulation may be contributing factors. Due to their intelligence, these birds may become frustrated if they are not stimulated or engaged in any activity.Also, simply because they have nothing else to do, your pet bird might become agitated and scream if left alone for long periods. |
How to Reduce the Noise Level Of African Greys?
African Greys can be quite loud, which is something to consider if you are thinking of bringing one into your home. They make a variety of vocalizations and mimic human speech with remarkable clarity.
However, they can also be trained to reduce the noise level somewhat. Providing them with plenty of toys and activities that will keep them entertained can help limit how much they chirp or squawk throughout the day.
Keeping African Greys happy is essential, so make sure you devote time each day to interactive playtime with your bird. The result is less noisy behavior because your feathered friend is mentally stimulated, which builds trust between you.
Additionally, healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables and nutritious pellets can enhance energy levels and discourage excessive screaming.
Following these steps will help you and your African Grey feel safe, secure, and comfortable while enjoying each other’s company without too much noise. If mutual respect is established, everyone should be able to live together peacefully.
Are African Greys Suitable For Apartment Living?
African Greys are considered to be fairly quiet parrots, making them suitable for apartment living. They don’t tend to make loud screeches like other birds, and their vocalizations generally consist of gentle chirps or soft whistles.
However, they can become quite talkative when in the company of people who interact with them regularly. African Greys are also highly intelligent creatures who need plenty of stimulation and interaction to stay happy.
If not given this mental exercise, they may resort to screaming or shrieking out of boredom. To prevent this behavior from occurring, owners must spend time talking and playing games with their African Grey each day.
It is also essential that potential owners provide an adequate amount of space for their African Grey so as not to create any behavioral issues due to overcrowding. With these considerations made, an African Grey can live happily in an apartment without causing too much noise disruption.
Conclusion
African Greys are amazing, intelligent birds that require a lot of attention and care. They need plenty of space to roam around in so they can express their natural behaviors as well as exercise.
With love and patience, these birds will provide you with years of companionship since the average lifespan is about 50 years! African Greys are also highly trainable, which makes them great pets for families who want an interactive pet bird.
Although they may be loud at times, African Greys truly make wonderful and loyal companions. African Greys are an excellent choice for a pet bird that adds personality to your home.
So if you have enough room in your home and heart for one of these remarkable creatures – go ahead and get yourself an African Grey today!

Ali Shahid is a veterinarian by profession and an animal lover. He loves to give expert opinions about different animals. He has worked in top organization of birds like Bigbird Feed and Poultry Research institute. He loves birds, especially parrots and has great experience in different parrot farms.