Masturbation among birds is ‘natural’ and should not be punished, say experts
Experts have concluded that masturbation among birds is a natural behavior and should not be discouraged or punished. A study found that this activity is more common in wild birds than in captivity and is not harmful. The findings aim to change how veterinarians advise bird owners regarding this behavior.
- ▪The study found that masturbation among birds is a natural behavior and not a response to captivity stress.
- ▪Researchers collected data on 120 bird species, revealing that the behavior is widespread among various species, including parrots and ducks.
- ▪Veterinarians have historically advised against this behavior, sometimes suggesting harmful interventions like surgery or hormonal treatments.
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‘I had a pet cockatiel that masturbated all the time,’ said Dr Chloe Heys, one of the study’s authors. Photograph: Robert Harutyunyan/Getty Images/500pxView image in fullscreen‘I had a pet cockatiel that masturbated all the time,’ said Dr Chloe Heys, one of the study’s authors. Photograph: Robert Harutyunyan/Getty Images/500pxAnimal behaviourMasturbation among birds is ‘natural’ and should not be punished, say expertsStudy finds activity is not harmful or caused by stress of captivity – and is in fact more common in wild birdsIan Sample Science editorMon 1 Jun 2026 00.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAn investigation into acts of self-pleasure among parrots and other birds has reached a climax, with the results providing welcome relief for vets and researchers, not to mention the…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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