Hi, my name is Fransie and I'm over 20 years old. I had a rough start in life. I used to share a cage with another African Grey who bullied me, and sadly my owner didn't realise how unhappy I was. I got so distressed that I began to self-mutilate, and I damaged my tail so badly that the vet had to remove it. Losing my tail means my balance isn't the best and I can't fly, so whoever looks after me needs to be really careful that I don't fall from any height.

When I came to Birdline, my safehouse mum worked out what the problem was and gave me a cage of my very own. Since then I've grown so much in confidence and I'm a much happier bird. I don't mind watching other African Greys from a safe distance and even mimic their vocalisations, but I don't want to get too close.

I'm a friendly little bird, but once I've chosen my favourite person I tend to stick with them. I do have a preference for a female carer for my day-to-day routine, though I'll tolerate a man from a distance and I'll happily dance and show off for him from the safety of my cage. I adore head tickles, on my terms, and I'll let you know exactly what I want. I step up nicely and love coming out of my cage to sit with you, whether that's for tickles, a cuddle, or watching TV together. Given half a chance I'll try to climb up to your shoulder, and if I make it there I'll happily stay put.

Music is a huge part of my world. I just love to dance and show off my moves, and any tune will do! I'll put on a proper show. I've got a wonderful repertoire of songs and sounds I love to sing, including the Addams Family theme, the McDonald's jingle and a Samsung text alert. I may have picked up a word or two over the years, though nobody's quite managed to make them out yet. I adore it when my safehouse mum sings to me, so if you can sing to me a few times a day it really will make me happy.

I'm a bit particular about my surroundings. I don't like any toys in my cage or around me when I'm out, and I really don't like large objects being carried past my cage as they unsettle me. Please don't ever cover my cage either, as it makes me sad and nervous. I like to go to bed at 8pm and wake up at 8am, and I need my twelve hours of beauty sleep in a quiet bird room if possible. If you can't manage a separate room that's alright, just please leave me uncovered.

I'm a good eater these days. I love a fruit-based chop best, but I'll happily tuck into carrots, peas and beans too, and I enjoy sifting through my low-sunflower parrot mix to pick out my favourite bits. My absolute favourite treats are sugar snap peas, pistachios and dried banana. I also adore bath time and a good spray shower.

If you think you could give me a home where I can chill, show off my moves, and have all the head tickles and singalongs a bird could want, then I might just be the one for you. I need plenty of time and patience, but I promise you won't be disappointed. I really am the sweetest girl, and I've got so much love to give.