While, at a glance, the Timneh African Grey may look very similar to a Congo African Grey, there are a few noticeable differences to look for to tell them apart. In a side-by-side comparison the Timnehs are much smaller in size. The grey on their back and wings is also darker, as well as the tail feathers which are dark maroon instead of red. Even the beaks have a slight difference! Timnehs have a beige-to-black upper mandible as seen in the picture on the right. These Greys are native to West Africa, but they do not share a geographic range with the Congo Greys.
The Timneh African Greys are overshadowed by the larger Congo African Greys, and some people assume that they are not as good at talking or mimicking, but that is not the case. The Timnehs can be of equal intelligence given the right learning environment and stimulation. As far as personalities go, Timneh African Greys may be less anxious, more adaptable to environmental changes, and more playful or hands on than some Congos. It is important to remember that each bird is an individual, just like people are, and that they have their own personalities and moods. A conservative life span for these birds can be up to 40 years or more.