September 28, 2026 · Guides
What to Ask a Breeder Before You Buy an African Grey Parrot
A short phone or video conversation, with the right questions, tells you more than any listing description. Here’s what to actually ask.
About the specific bird
- What is the hatch date and current weaning status?
- What is the leg ring number, and can I see it on a video call?
- Has the bird had a DNA sexing test, and can I see the lab certificate?
- Has an avian vet examined this bird, and when?
- What does this specific bird’s personality look like day to day?
About the breeder and aviary
- Where is the aviary, and can I visit or see it on a video call?
- What licence or registration do you operate under, and can I verify it?
- How are chicks hand-raised — what does a typical day look like for them?
- What happens if there’s a health problem shortly after I bring the bird home?
About the transaction
- Is a deposit required before or after a video call?
- Is collection in person, and if delivery is offered, who actually delivers the bird?
- Is there a written reservation agreement, and what does it cover?
What the answers tell you
A breeder who answers all of this specifically and without hesitation, and is happy to show you the bird live, is behaving the way a legitimate business should. Vague answers, refusal to video call, or pressure to pay quickly are the same warning signs covered in our guide to spotting an African grey parrot scam.
See our own answers to these questions on our standards page, or browse current listings.