Males are usually 12-14 inches (30-35. 5 cm) in height. Hens are generally somewhat shorter than this. [2] X Research source The body of a male African Grey is somewhat round, while females tend to be more slender. Males heads tend to be small and flat, and their necks are shorter. Females tend to have longer necks, with larger, rounder heads.

This technique should only be considered in birds older than 18 months. A chick’s feathers are still growing, so the color will change with age.

Females will have ventral feathers that are edged in a shade of gray. Males will have ventral feathers that are solid red. There may be a small white hairline on male feathers. Keep in mind, this test is not accurate for young parrots. You cannot rely on tail feathers to determine sex unless your grey is 18 months of age or older.

In females, the bands are usually gray, white, and dark gray. In males, the bands are usually gray, gray, and dark gray. As this difference is very slight, it can be hard to spot. You should look into other physical characteristics of an African Grey, in addition to wing color, in order to determine sex.

You can also do a basic internet search for “avian vet in my area. ” If you have other pets, talk to their vet. He or she might be able to refer you to a specialist or be able to conduct blood or DNA tests in house. Make sure your vet is certified with the AAV or American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP). They should be able to provide documentation to prove this.

Vets often use endoscopies to determine sex. This is involves using a telescope to examine a bird’s internal organs. [7] X Research source Your vet may have other laboratory means to test the sex of your bird. Sex testing methods depend on your bird’s overall health and medical history, so talk over options with your vet.

You can gather DNA from plucked feathers, eggshells, or toenail clippings. DNA collections from these samples are equally accurate as a DNA test from a blood sample. [8] X Research source You can talk to your vet to see if they can offer you this kit. However, be sure to get a certified DNA document from this testing. It is important to note that blood feathers nor molted feathers contain enough DNA data for accurate testing. You’ll have to pluck feathers directly from your bird. You should get your test results pretty quickly. It takes about 2-3 business days. A testing kit will cost you around $15. 00. [9] X Research source