A new scientific review has challenged the long-held belief that masturbation in birds is primarily a sign of stress or poor welfare in captivity. Researchers have concluded that the behaviour is a natural and widespread part of avian biology, occurring across numerous bird species in both wild and captive environments.
The study, led by evolutionary biologist Chloe Heys and conducted by researchers from the Universities of Lancashire, Swansea and Oxford, examined records from 120 bird species representing 22 major avian groups. Their findings suggest that self-stimulatory behaviour is not an unusual trait but may be an ancient characteristic present throughout bird evolution.
“Despite assumptions that masturbation among captive birds like parrots is a result of their often-solitary living, our study finds that it is natural, healthy, and widespread across diverse bird species, even in different environments,” Heys said.
Researchers found the behaviour in both male and female birds, although males accounted for a greater share of documented observations. The analysis also indicated that masturbation was reported more frequently in species with multiple mating partners, suggesting potential evolutionary and reproductive benefits.
Scientists say the findings could help change perceptions among bird owners and breeders, who often interpret the behaviour as a welfare concern. Instead, the evidence points to it being a normal component of avian sexual behaviour and reproductive biology.
