50 Shades of Grey (Bird Edition)

From pale to slate to smoky, the following shades of grey come from New York photographer and author Andrew Zuckerman's photography book, Bird.

African Grey Parrot

A scalloped assortment of pale grey and frost-tipped feathers, the African Grey Parrot is a keen and chatty bird of the Congo. These parrots roost as a flock, creating a cacophony of squawks, whistles, shrill shrieks, and cries when together.

Marabou Stork

Dusky grey wings and balding, flesh-hued head put the Marabou Stork, often seen scavenging dumps and slaughterhouses, low on the cute list. But in flight, this stork’s graceful form stupefies observers as it glides above Sub-Saharan savanna.

Palm Cockatoo

The smoky plumed Palm Cockatoo of tropical New Guinea and nearby islands has two standout red face patches. This color can range from vivid crimson to fully bleached to dull and blemished burgundy depending on the bird, likely showing its mood or health. 

Victoria Crowned Pigeon

A steel blue-grey body flaunting a fine lacy feather crest, this handsome pigeon tends to commit. Victoria Crowned Pigeons, the largest pigeon in the world, are said to mate for life.

Inca Tern

Slate grey and mustachioed, the Inca Tern takes its name from its range, which encompasses portions of the ancient Inca Empire in South America. White and curled facial feathers appear along both sides of its beak when this water loving bird reaches maturity.

For more birds—grey and otherwise—explore our Bird Guide.