ASP ref: ASP436

Name: Bertie

Species: African Grey Parrot

Description: Hey everyone, it’s me, Bertie! 🦜
I’m an 18-year-old African Grey with a big heart, an even bigger personality, and a few quirks that make me a little bit of a project bird. My current mum loves me very much and has worked her hardest to make me happy, but she’s realised I might thrive better in a different environment. She’s hopeful that my next home will be my forever one, with someone who has the experience and patience to help me live my best life.

A Little About Me

My Background

I started life with an older gentleman in Birmingham who had me until I was 13. Then, I went to a young family who had me for one year before I came to my current mum. I was timid when I arrived, but I turned out to have some behavioral and health challenges too. It takes me a long time to settle—sometimes over a year!—but I’ve had a lot of adjusting to do over my life. That’s why it’s so important my next home is my last one. I need someone who understands me and is committed to giving me a stable, loving environment.

My Health

I’m managing a couple of health challenges, but they don’t slow me down! I have a benign fungal infection in my lungs that causes sneezing, and I need a diet rich in calcium to help with my deficiency. My mum feeds me pellets, fruits, and veggies (though I’m picky—I never took to chop!), along with calcium supplement powder sprinkled on my food twice a week.

I can’t fly—not because of clipped wings, but likely because I wasn’t let out much when I was younger. Now, I’m a bit nervous to try. But I get around just fine without flying and still love to explore and chew on things (more on that later).

Stepping Up

I’ll be honest: I don’t like stepping up. It makes me nervous, and I’ll let you know with a bite if I feel pressured. I only tend to give in if I want to get back to my cage after being at the vets. My mum has tried different techniques to help me, but I’m a bit of a tough nut to crack. It’ll take a lot of patience and creativity to earn my trust, but I know it will be a rewarding journey.

Training Challenges

I love a treat, but even with my favorite snacks—grapes and sunflower seeds—I’m just not motivated enough by food rewards. This has made target training a little challenging.

Vocalizations and Attention

I’m quite the chatterbox, and while I have picked up some not-so-nice phrases from my first home, I also have a lot of adorable, funny, and sweet things I say.

When my cover goes on at bedtime, I say, “Good night, Ber.” I love singing and will sometimes burst into what sounds like opera! I also talk gibberish to join in on conversations—my mum says it sounds just like Sims talk!

I have a mix of a Birmingham and Glaswegian accent, so I have some unique phrases. I’ll say things like “It’s okay,” make kissy noises, tell myself I’m a good boy, say “I love you” and “Hi Bertie.” Most recently, I’ve started saying “Mornin’” in a really dry Scottish accent, which makes my mum laugh every time! Speaking of laughter, I love imitating laughs and will join in, especially with my mum’s own laugh—it just makes everything even funnier.

When my mum comes in from work, I always greet her—sometimes with a wolf whistle!

Dancing and Playfulness

I love music and movement! If someone starts dancing, I’ll raise my wings and move my head side to side to join in. I also adore paper—if I hold it in my foot, I’ll wiggle it around and say “Woo!” I love shredding it and dancing along with its movements.

Chewing and Exploring

I’m an adventurous chewer! Furniture is my favourite target, and I am fascinated with anything that resembles a cable, so my new home will need to be bird-proofed. I’ll need lots of safe toys to keep me busy.

Hormonal Behaviors

In the past, I’ve displayed hormonal behaviour toward my dad. He thought I was making progress with him because I wanted to step up, but then I got a little possessive and acted out toward my mum. I don’t mean to, but it’s something my new family will need to work with.

Why I’m Hopeful for the Future

I’ve come a long way, and I’m still learning and growing. All Star Parrots think I might do well with a bird buddy—something I’ve never had before. Another parrot could help me feel more secure and teach me new ways to socialise.

I’m also looking for a mum or dad with experience who understands African Greys like me, especially those who need a little extra patience. I’ve lived with men, women, and even children, but I’d be best in a home without small kids. And please, no dogs or cats—they’re not my vibe.

A Note From My Mum

My mum loves me to bits and only wants what’s best for me. She hopes to stay in touch with my new family, both to offer help and to hear how I’m doing. She knows me inside out and will always be happy to answer questions to make my transition as smooth as possible.

I know I’m not the easiest bird, but I’m worth it. With the right person who understands my quirks, I can be a loyal, funny, and loving companion!

Location: London, E18 2EP

Donation fee: £0 I am Cites

You will need to be a Gold Star Member to adopt any of the parrots from ASP. (Currently £80)

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