Bird breed

Senegal Parrot

Also known as: Poicephalus senegalus

A compact, quiet African parrot with a big personality.

Written by E. S.· Updated October 2026

  • Playful
  • Affectionate
  • Intelligent
  • Calm
  • Curious

The Senegal parrot is a small African parrot known for its calm, affectionate nature and relatively quiet voice. Senegals are playful and intelligent and often bond strongly with one person. They are a good choice for experienced owners wanting a smaller, quieter parrot.

At a glance

Origin
West Africa
Size
Small
Weight
4.2–6 oz (120–170 g)
Lifespan
25–35 years
Coat
Plumage
Colours
Green, Yellow, Orange, Grey
Average cost
$60–$110 / month

Breed ratings

Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.

Energy level
Intelligence

Learns quickly and solves problems

Trainability

Takes to training readily

Affection

Wants close contact with people

Independence
Good with children
Good with other pets
Apartment friendly

Comfortable in a smaller home

Beginner friendly
Shedding
Grooming needs
Noise level

Temperament

Senegals are affectionate and playful and may bond strongly to one person.

Care & upkeep

Exercise

Three hours or more out of the cage daily.

Grooming

Baths or misting 2–3 times weekly.

Training

Intelligent and trainable; many learn a few words.

Feeding & diet

Typical diet
Pellet-based with fresh vegetables
Daily amount
Pellets plus fresh vegetables daily
Meals per day
Fresh food daily

Pellets and vegetables should form most of the diet.

Foods to avoid

  • Avocado
  • Chocolate
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Salt
  • Apple seeds

Who this breed suits

A good match for

  • Apartments
  • Experienced bird owners
  • Calm households

Probably not for

  • Owners away all day

Common health problems

This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.

  • ObesityAvoid seed-heavy diets.
  • PsittacosisA bacterial infection transmissible to humans.
  • PBFDA viral disease — ask breeders about testing.
  • AspergillosisA fungal infection linked to poor hygiene and ventilation.
  • Feather pluckingLinked to boredom and stress.

Watch weight — Senegals gain weight easily.

Interesting facts

  • One of the quieter parrot species.
  • Can live over 30 years.
  • Known for lying on their backs to play.

Diet & Feeding

Feed a quality pellet as the base, with fresh vegetables daily and some fruit. Avoid seed-heavy diets, which cause obesity.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Senegals need 3 hours or more out of the cage daily and plenty of toys and foraging opportunities.

Grooming

Offer baths or misting 2–3 times a week. Have nails and beak checked every 6–8 weeks.

Health & Vet Care

Watch for obesity, psittacosis, PBFD, aspergillosis and feather plucking. Schedule annual avian vet check-ups.

Living with a Senegal Parrot

Senegals are affectionate but can become one-person birds. Encourage handling by several household members. They are quieter than many parrots.