African grey budget: what does the first year really cost?
The first year with an African grey parrot costs between 2,500 and 4,500 €. The bird itself (registered breeder, closed ring, with EU certificate) accounts for 800 to 1,500 €, the cage and fittings 400 to 800 €, avian veterinary care 150 to 400 €, and running costs (food, toys demolished in series) 60 to 100 € per month. It is a financial — and emotional — commitment spanning decades: a grey lives 40 to 60 years.
How much do the bird and its paperwork cost?
A young African grey from a French breeder costs 800 to 1,500 €. The species is listed in CITES Appendix I: insist on the intra-community certificate (CIC), the closed ring and the invoice. A « cheap » bird without papers may come from trafficking: besides the illegality, you risk having the animal seized. Add DNA sexing (15 to 25 €) if the breeder has not done it.
What starting equipment should you plan?
- XXL cage (min. 100 × 80 × 150 cm, 4-5 mm bars): 300 to 600 €.
- Parrot stand and play area: 80 to 200 €.
- Hardwood perches, food-grade stainless steel, lockable bowls: 50 to 100 €.
- Rigid travel carrier: 40 to 80 €.
Choosing durable equipment is covered in our accessories section and in the comparison cheap or premium cage — for a grey, premium is almost always justified.
What is the monthly budget once you are set up?
Expect 60 to 100 €: quality pellets and fresh food (20 to 30 €), toys to destroy — a grey demolishes 15 to 30 € of wood per month —, cage lining and upkeep. The annual check-up with an avian vet (60 to 120 € with tests) is essential: greys are prone to hypocalcaemia and aspergillosis, and screening beats treating.
Which hidden costs surprise new owners?
Care during the holidays (10 to 25 € per day in a specialist boarding facility — see our bird-sitting options), replacing destroyed equipment, possible behavioural support if screaming or feather plucking sets in, and adapting your home. A grey is also a very vocal, very demanding companion: working from home with a parrot takes preparation.
Frequently asked questions
Can you adopt a second-hand African grey?
Yes, rehomings are common: the bird often costs less, but check papers and health, and allow for a sometimes lengthy adjustment period.
Is health insurance worth it for a grey?
A few policies exist (15 to 30 € per month); compare ceilings and exclusions, otherwise save the equivalent each month.
Does the budget drop after the first year?
Yes: once equipped, expect 800 to 1,200 € per year, toys and vet included — for several decades.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Birds universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.