We were torn between an Eclectus and an African Grey. We decided on the Eclectus in the end because the males are very laid back, lovable and friendly. The greys can latch on to one favorite person and not care for another in the family. We wanted a bird who would love us equally. Also, the ekkies are known for being very gentle (males are) and even when they're upset with you, they will normally give you a warning shove or two before they bite (if you don't take the hint!). Though the red female ekkies are so strikingly beautiful, we wanted the gentler male. Females in the breeding age can be quite nasty, even to their green ekkie mates! Our bird is a real doll. Very good natured most of the time, except at bedtime. He hates being shut in his cage for bed.