Scott, I got Sophie when she was about one year old. I have also had a Conyer for about 15 years (they're loud as hell!). I checked out Sophie at the pet store, but didn't buy that day. When I returned a week later, she had been purchased. On a trip two weeks later, I was told that it "wasn't working out" with the new owners.

The family had several young children and had purchased a puppy after they got Sophie, which was really hyper.

That made the bird really nervous and she started to pull out her feathers.

I consulted the vet for the other bird (Ralph), bought her, and two weeks later, she was a member of the family...healthy as can be and always entertaining.

We have a Koi pond and Sophie likes to stand at the edge of the water and yell out, " Come here, little fishies" (LOL).

You're right-owning an African Grey is a lifetime commitment. They are extremely smart and very shy. They are the "talkingest" of the parrots.

Great companions!

We only take her out for vet appointments/check-ups.

Russ