Psittacus

Psittacus
Grey parrot
Timneh parrot
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Psittaciformes
Family: Psittacidae
Subfamily: Psittacinae
Genus: Psittacus
Linnaeus, 1758
Type species
Psittacus erithacus (grey parrot)
Species

Psittacus is a genus of African grey parrots in the subfamily Psittacinae. It contains two species: the grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) and the Timneh parrot (Psittacus timneh).

For many years, the grey parrot and Timneh parrot were classified as subspecies; the former as the nominate, the latter as P. e. timneh. However, in 2012 the taxa were recognized as separate species by BirdLife International on the basis of genetic, morphological, plumage and vocal differences.[1][2]

These parrots are found in the primary and secondary rainforest of West and Central Africa. They are among the most intelligent birds in the world. They feed primarily on palm nuts, seeds, fruits, and leafy matter, but have also been observed eating snails. Their inclination and ability to mimic speech and other sounds have made them popular pets.

  1. ^ "Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) has been split into grey parrot (P. erithacus) and Timneh grey parrot (P. timneh): are both eligible for uplisting?". BirdLife International (2011). 12 June 2011. Retrieved 27 March 2014.
  2. ^ "Trade in Africa's Grey Parrots and Timneh Parrots is currently not sustainable". BirdLife International. Retrieved 27 March 2014.

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