# Timneh Parrot: Personality, Size and Care Guide | Crownwing Parrots Canonical URL: https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/parrots/african-parrots/timneh-parrot/ Explore the Timneh Parrot’s appearance, social needs, vocalisation, training and everyday care before asking about availability. HomeSpecies guidesAfrican Grey Parrots SPECIES & CARE # Timneh Parrot The Timneh Parrot is a compact African grey with darker charcoal plumage, a maroon tail and a distinctive pale horn-coloured upper bill. It shares the group’s intelligence and need for thoughtful interaction, while each bird has its own character. Scientific namePsittacus timneh Typical adult sizeAbout 28–30 cm long; commonly around 275–375 g, with individual variation. Lifetime planningOften several decades in captivity; plan carefully for a long-lived companion. ## Overview and appearance Timneh Parrots are smaller than Congo African Greys, with dark grey feathers, a maroon rather than bright-red tail and a pale upper mandible. Their natural range lies in West Africa. Taxonomy and naming have changed over time in reference works, but the accepted scientific name used here is Psittacus timneh. The compact build does not make this a low-needs pet. Timnehs explore with their beaks, feet and voices, and need safe ways to climb, chew, forage and observe their surroundings. An individual’s markings alone should not replace reliable identification and care history. ## Personality and temperament Many Timnehs are watchful, thoughtful birds that prefer to approach new people and situations gradually. Their confidence, handling preferences and sociability differ; avoid treating a general species description as a guarantee about one bird. Giving a parrot the option to move away is an important part of respectful interaction. Like other companion parrots, a Timneh needs both social contact and opportunities to spend time independently. Build a predictable routine that includes calm interaction, rest and foraging. A strong preference for one familiar person can develop, so gentle positive experiences with the wider household can be useful. ## Typical adult size A Timneh is usually about 28–30 cm long and often weighs roughly 275–375 g. Published figures vary, and an individual’s healthy weight depends on its build and condition. Enclosure design should give the bird room to climb, stretch both wings and move between perches, with safe access to exercise beyond the cage. ## Expected lifespan and long-term care This is a long-term companion, potentially living for several decades under human care. Life expectancy is not a promise for an individual. Consider who would care for the bird if your circumstances change, and include suitable veterinary care in long-term planning. ## Talking and vocalisation Timnehs can imitate sounds and some learn human words, but talking ability is individual and cannot be guaranteed. Their repertoire may include whistles, calls and familiar household noises. These sounds are part of parrot communication; decide whether your home can accommodate regular vocal activity before choosing one. ## Intelligence and reward-based training Their alertness makes them well suited to positive-reinforcement learning and varied enrichment. Teach practical skills in brief, low-pressure sessions, such as stepping onto a perch, entering a carrier and targeting a hand-held object. Let the bird choose to participate; persistence, punishment or forced handling are not good substitutes for trust. ## Diet and nutrition Offer a balanced diet with appropriate formulated food and a variety of fresh vegetables, using fruit and richer treats in proportion. Seed mixes alone are not a complete feeding plan. Ask an avian veterinarian about the bird’s existing diet and how to make changes safely for that individual; do not add supplements without professional advice. ## Housing, exercise and enrichment Use a secure, roomy enclosure, varied perch sizes and safe materials to chew and investigate. Supervised exercise in a bird-safe area, simple foraging tasks and regular toy rotation help provide activity. Keep the layout and objects safe: inspect toys and remove damaged items before they become hazards. ## Suitability and questions before enquiry A Timneh may suit people prepared to learn parrot body language and provide patient daily care over many years. Smaller size does not mean a low-maintenance pet. A busy household can work only if the bird has reliable interaction, rest and a safe retreat; young children need close adult supervision around any parrot. Ask about the specific bird’s age, diet, social history, handling preferences and routine. Discuss what happens during introductions, transport and the first weeks at home, and confirm current individual availability directly. These educational notes do not confirm that this species is in stock. ## Prepare before you enquire Work through the UK buying journeyCheck documentation and registrationBuild your ownership budgetPrepare for the first days at home ## Plan the next step African Grey Parrots category guideAfrican Grey Parrots buying questionsPractical ownership planningHousing, exercise and enrichmentQuestions to resolve before buyingBudgeting for lifetime careFeeding and nutrition guidanceAvailable groups and current-bird enquiries CURRENT BIRDS · DETAILS BY ENQUIRY ## Ask which Timneh Parrot birds are available Is a Timneh Parrot currently available, and could you describe its established routine, diet and individual social preferences? Ask about current birds ## Compare related species Congo African Grey Parrot ## Links and sources - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/parrots/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/parrots/african-parrots/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/buying-a-parrot/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/cites-parrots-uk/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/parrot-ownership-costs/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/preparing-for-a-parrot/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/parrots-for-sale/african-grey-parrots/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/choosing-a-parrot/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/parrot-housing-enrichment/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/buying-a-parrot-checklist/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/guides/parrot-diet-nutrition/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/available-birds/ - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/contact/?species=african-parrots&bird=timneh-parrot - https://crownwingparrots.co.uk/parrots/african-parrots/congo-african-grey-parrot/