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Alex the African Grey Parrot Irene Pepperberg, an animal psychologist, purchased Alex in 1977 from a pet shop on the Northwest Side. She began an investigation lasting 30 years that would alter our perception of avian intelligence. Her research with Alex challenged the notion that birds could only mimic human language, but not understand the meaning. What is Alex? Alex (short form for Avian Learning experiment) was initially an African grey parrot that was purchased from a pet shop. Over the course of his life, he forged new ground in the field of animal psychology and proved that animals are as intelligent as primates or dolphins. Up until his death in 2007, Alex was one of the most famous talking birds in the world, appearing on TV programs and scientific reports. Alex was able to identify colors, shapes and materials as well as the sizes of objects. Alex also understood the meaning behind words, a feat which was uncommon for birds. For example, when he heard the word “grape” he would recognize that it was a fruit and not a vegetable. Dr. Pepperberg taught Alex words in a way that made him understand them. She along with a colleague would take on the roles of teacher and student. Alex observed and listened. He was rewarded for correct pronunciation and definition by receiving the object that was associated with the word. She also taught Alex the significance of words, instead of just the sounds. This was a groundbreaking method, as it is typically the case that pet parrots get taught words for their novelty value only. When owners use an idiom but they don't actually mean what they are saying. However with Alex who spoke the word he was using, he was really meaning what he said. While many are awed by the fact that Alex could learn so many things but some scientists have said that it is unfair to compare Alex with humans in terms of intelligence. They pointed out that although Alex could communicate, he was not proficient in using logic phrases like “if there is x, then there is y.” Although this is still controversial however, the fact is that Alex set the foundation for research into the animal mind and consciousness. When he died in 2007 at the age of 31 Alex was among the most well-known talking parrots of all time. What was Alex's personality? Alex was an infamous gang member who enjoyed committing gruesome acts of brutality. Despite his vicious tendencies, Alex was a very likable character, and seemed to relish the power that he wielded over his fellow hoodlums. He was addicted to two things in his life which was violence and classical music, specifically Beethoven who's music always evoked images of blood and depravity for him. He and his group would drink milk laced with drugs to prepare themselves for “ultraviolence.” Alex's humble beginnings as an African Grey parrot at a pet store served him well. He was quick to grasp concepts and words from his human trainer, Irene Pepperberg. Her research over thirty years on him revolutionized theories about animal cognition, communication and interaction. She is grateful to Alex for teaching her how to apply the model that was effective for animals as well as children with learning disabilities. After her collaboration with him, Dr. Pepperberg went on to study other parrots like Wart and Griffin. She is now an assistant professor at the University of Washington and continues her pioneering work with birds. Alex is the youngest of the group and the most childlike. She is a bit of a tomboy and has been described by others as being a bit ticklish. She is the most animal-friendly member of the group. She is often the peacemaker when Clover and Sam have arguments that aren't worth the effort (such as “Abductions”) Alex has a very strong sense of self which she utilizes to manipulate other people. This has led to her getting into conflicts with other members of the gang, including her longtime foe Gigi who she blames for spilling juice on her blanket when she was when she was a kid (“Mime World”) She has also developed a Goth/Emo-style persona. She loves to wear black and write long poems about love, loss and life (“Boy Bands will be Boy Bands”). The show's creators have said that Seth MacFarlane's track is her most favorite and that she was a lover of his. What was Alex like in terms of intelligence? Alex Alex, the African grey parrot Irene Pepperberg first met in 1977, may appear to be just another pet. Alex revolutionized the field of animal psychological research by proving that birds are more than just “rabbit minds.” When Irene Pepperberg first saw him in the pet store, Alex was already an accomplished talker. He was able to categorize and identify objects, and identify them and even ask for them. He could also express feelings, for instance, when he felt dissatisfied or bored during training sessions. He would express this to his trainers by putting his head against his cage or yelling loudly, “I want a banana.” Alex's intelligence was so advanced that he was able to recognize and even categorize objects and their colors, shapes and materials. He was also able to tell the difference between a plastic bag and a wooden box, and also measure and compare the quantities of various items. He even grasped the concept of zero, which most people do not grasp until they are around four years old! Alex's skills were impressive as, unlike other parrots he understood what he said. He could use his over 100-word vocabulary to describe request and refuse objects as well as communicate the sizes and materials. He also demonstrated an understanding of analogies and could recognize the written form of words – though he didn't seem to associate these with their spoken versions. The majority of parrots learn words, but don't know what they mean. Pepperberg and her assistants played out scenarios which involved the object they wanted Alex to learn. This method is called the rival model and has become a common way to teach animals. In addition to his brain skills, Alex was a friendly and playful dog who enjoyed interacting with his owners. He often served as an advisor and cheerleader during training sessions, urging or admonishing them to do better. He was very observant, and he was able to identify the emotions of his human companions. He would leap into his owner's arms when she was happy, and then cling to her legs if she was sad or upset. What was Alex's impact on the world? In the short time he lived, Alex changed the lives of a lot of people. His legacy is a testimony to his determination and character. He was an inspirational figure for many mountain climbers, travellers, and those who were determined to live their lives on their terms. african grey parrot adoption taught them that they can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. He believed that if you don't care what others think of you, you can achieve excellence. Chris/Alex faced many challenges on his journey. He had to face the loss of his father, financial problems, and the adversity. He was capable of overcoming all these obstacles by his sheer will and perseverance. He never gave up his ambition to become a professional mountain climber. He did not give up on his ambition to become an mountain climber. Even after his death he continues to inspire people all over the world. The film Free Solo is a documentary about Alex's life and his incredible climbing achievements. This movie has received lots of critical acclaim, and is considered one of the top documentaries of all time. It has been awarded numerous awards, including the Academy Award in 2019 for Best Documentary Feature. In addition to his work with Dr. Pepperberg, Alex also pioneered new avenues of the field of avian intelligence. Alex was able to sing more than 100 vocal label for objects and actions. He was also capable of counting up to six object sets and demonstrated math skills that were quite advanced in the day for birds. He could also communicate with other animals via sign language and was able to comprehend a lot of grammar. He utilized an approach to training known as “rival model,” which involved two trainers who showed the bird what they wanted it to learn. The trainers would often switch positions so that the bird could interact with both trainers and receive the attention of each. After the success of Free Solo, Alex was awarded the status of National Hero by President Barack Obama in 2014. Alex was able to accomplish many things throughout his life due to his determination of character, and his desire to live his life on his terms.