A new study has found that masturbation among birds is a natural behaviour and should not be discouraged or punished by owners. Researchers say the activity is more common in the wild than in captivity, contradicting previous assumptions that it was a sign of stress.
Dr Chloe Heys, an evolutionary ecologist at the University of Lancashire, led the study, which surveyed bird experts, keepers and enthusiasts. The team collected data on 120 bird species, including parrots, ducks, turkeys and chickens. The findings are published in the journal Ecology and Evolution.
“Our big finding is that masturbation is not a negative response to captivity,” Heys said. “This is widespread in birds and we found it’s a perfectly natural and healthy behaviour that’s part of their repertoire of sexual behaviours.”
The study found that some owners had sought veterinary help, fearing their birds might hurt themselves. In extreme cases, vets had recommended removing perches, hormone treatment or even surgery to de-sex the birds. Heys called such interventions “bonkers” and said they could be more damaging than the behaviour itself.
Dr Ana Basto, a vet at the University of Lancashire not involved in the study, said the research would help vets give better advice. Dr Matilda Brindle, an evolutionary biologist at Oxford University and co-author, added: “The fact that masturbation seems to be even more common in wild birds than those in captivity has huge implications for their welfare.”
