Former African Grey owner here. Mom still has him. It's been at least 25 years since we found him. Yup, FOUND! Flew right into our window, or banged into it I should say. We took him inside, looked for ads of anyone in the area with a lost bird, and have had him ever since. Who knows where he came from?
They do gravitate toward one sex or the other. Ours loved me, hated women. Talkative is neat, but once they know it's cool and get positive reactions, it's tough to shut 'em up. A nice blanket over the cage is a good idea.
Square cages better than oval, something about them getting dizzy or something, research it.
They are way messy, and need constant attention. And, a good bite can cause stitches too, remember that too. STRONG animals. Also, remember to keep the wings clipped, or you could lose your bird with an open door and nobody paying attention.
Ours would pick on our cat. Kid you not, no fear. Had him trained enough to lie in my hands with his feet up. He's drink water from my lip, (which grossed most out) but showed the trust I had in him.
Miss him sometimes, but when I visit my mom, we always re-connect. Wife wanted no part of him when we got married, can't say I blame her. They are a lot of work, loud, and messy.