Repeating new phrases over and over

[greymom]

Rita is re-homed. We have had her for about three years and she is 10 now. She came to us with a large vocabulary but has not said anything new, that is, until two weeks ago. She started to say, "Going outside" which is what my husband says when he goes into the backyard. It was quite a surprise. She also started to say "Going out the door," which seems to be a combination of things she put together. But now she repeats "Going outside" over and over again from the time she gets up in the morning. Is it common for Greys to repeat new phrases endlessly. We are delighted that she picked up new words. But I am just wondering about the repetition.

[Dave007]

It's very common because any bird that likes to talk will revert back to when it was owned by someone else. That's what happened there and now you. Right now, he's hearing new voices, new words and is doing what most greys which is to constantly repeat new words/phrases until it's part of the other voculary that he has. Expect it to happen for a while and expect it to happen whenever new words/phrases are listened to by your bird.

[Luvparrots]

Yes they do repeat words they like. Have you tried talking with Rita when she says "going outside"? Like, "can I come, too?" I think it is wonderful that she is increasing her vocabulary! Hooray for Rita!

[greymom]

Thank you dave007 and luvparrots. We are really thrilled that Rita is saying something new.