Monet is our female African Grey Parrot. We joined her flock shortly after she was hatched nine years ago and took her on our boat, cruising the coast of Maine for a month. We bonded, and she has become an essential part of our life.
Though very demanding at times, she has taught us her daily routine. Early in the morning, after being uncovered, she greets us with "Good Morning," puts her head down, and asks for a "rub-a-dub," then demands "breakfast" or "fresh yum-yum" consisting of pasta, fruit, and vegetables. She snacks during the day on special parrot food but especially likes treats of nuts.
She loves to join our conversations, and if we get too animated, she tells us to "whisper." Throughout the day, she responds to prompts, can count to 5, and recites her truncated renditions of "Take a Walk on the Wild Side" and "Peter Piper."
Parrots are known for their ability to mimic, but Monet also clearly knows how to manipulate us. Late afternoon she tells us "Night-night," wanting to be covered, and tells us "I love you" or "Give me a kiss," knowing she will get nut treats to snack on after she is covered for the night.
Monet is also musically talented, able to whistle shortened versions of Brahm's Lullaby, Jingle
Bells, and the theme to Jeopardy.
We could go on and on about her, but we won’t. You can tell we love our delightful African Grey Parrot Monet.