They're demanding in that they are highly social animals, so they can't really be left alone for long periods. They need affection/interaction. They bond with

They're demanding in that they are highly social animals, so they can't really be left alone for long periods. They need affection/interaction. They bond with humans just as humans bond with each other. So they really do become almost like a family member. Because of their intelligence, it's not just like having a dog who you can throw a ball and walk down the block. I suggest reading and watching videos of Alex the African Grey. Really eye-opening into the learning abilities and reach of intelligence which birds possess.