Many readers already know a group of African Grey Parrots for one cheeky trait.
They have earned a reputation for using very rude language.
The birds, now called the famous five, have attracted global attention because they simply cannot help themselves.
They frequently tell staff and visitors to “Go Away” in a rather impolite way.
Where can I see the Five Swearing Parrots?
You can see them at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park in Friskney, near Skegness.
They live in two main aviaries.
One aviary sits beside our popular walkthrough area.
The other is located near the Rainforest Diner.
Why Do The Parrots Swear?
They did not pick up their bad language from our keepers.
As the UK’s largest parrot sanctuary, we rescue birds from pet backgrounds.
The parrots arrived with those phrases already learned.
In the wild, parrots imitate sounds around them and each other.
Pet parrots copy radios, TVs and owners.
When a bird says something funny or rude, owners often react with laughter.
That reaction rewards the bird and encourages repetition for attention and fun.
What are the Swearing Parrots?
The swearing flock consists of five African Grey Parrots.
They’re famous for their habit of swearing.
African Greys are also known as the Congo grey parrot, African grey parrot, or Congo African grey parrot.
Why were the Swearing Parrots Separated?
The five birds had not lived together before arriving at the park.
They arrived at the same time and spent quarantine in ARRC (Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre).
During quarantine they repeatedly used their foul language and shouted at one another.
After quarantine they moved into an existing colony.
We hoped older birds would tone down the language.
The opposite happened and more birds picked up the rude phrases.
Visitors found this very amusing and many birds started copying the language.
We now have 8 full time swearers in the park.
Because we are a family venue, we separated the original five between two colonies to reduce the spread of bad words.
Do They Still Swear?
Yes. They remain as foul-mouthed as ever.
The swearing is just a little less concentrated now.
Are They Happy?
The famous five appear content in their flocks.
They keep learning new ways to make visitors laugh.
Why are the Swearing Parrots so Famous?
It’s unclear exactly how their fame began.
We posted about them on social media and news outlets picked up the story.
The tale has run worldwide for several years.
They have featured on NBC News and CBC News.
Publications in China, Germany, the UK, the US and many other countries have covered them.
In the United States they’re often called the Cussing Parrots or Cursing Parrots.
Can I see the Swearing Parrots?
Yes. The park welcomes the public seven days a week, except on Christmas and New Year.
You can find out how to visit the swearing parrots and our other residents here.