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UK Study Finds Widespread Masturbation in 120 Bird Species

6/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

UK researchers published a 2026-06-01 study in Ecology and Evolution documenting widespread bird masturbation.
The survey covered 120 species from 22 groups using expert reports and literature.
Juvenile and adult birds showed similar masturbation rates, especially in promiscuous species.
Masturbation occurred more often in wild birds than in captive, particularly hand-reared, individuals.
Co-authors advise vets against perch removal, hormones or surgery because the behavior benefits breeding-program welfare.

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Story summary

UK researchers published a 2026-06-01 study in Ecology and Evolution documenting widespread bird masturbation.
The survey covered 120 species from 22 groups using expert reports and literature.
Juvenile and adult birds showed similar masturbation rates, especially in promiscuous species.
Masturbation occurred more often in wild birds than in captive, particularly hand-reared, individuals.
Co-authors advise vets against perch removal, hormones or surgery because the behavior benefits breeding-program welfare.