Understanding and Managing Parrot Over-Preening

Written By Natasha Murphy

Over-Preening is a common behavioural issue seen in pet parrots. It’s when a bird starts grooming it’s feathers excessively - sometimes to the point of damaging them or even creating bald patches. While preening is a natural and healthy activity that keeps feathers in top condition, over-preening can be a sign that something isn’t right.

Why Do Parrots Over-Preen?

There’s no single cause, but common triggers include:

  • Boredom or lack of stimulation - Intelligent birds need mental and physical enrichment everyday.

  • Stress or anxiety - Changes in the environment, routine, or flock dynamics can cause stress.

  • Nutritional deficiencies - Poor diet can affect skin and feather health.

  • Medical issues - Skin infections, parasites, or other health concerns.

    If your parrot is over-preening, it’s important to first rule out medical causes with a qualified avian vet. Once health issues are excluded, you can focus on environmental and behavioural solutions.

    Shredding Toys - and how they can help

    Parrots are natural busy, curious creatures. In the wild, they spend much of their day foraging, chewing, and interacting with their surroundings. In captivity, if they don’t have enough to keep them occupied, they can redirect that energy into feather over-preening.


    Shredding toys offer a safe and satisfying outlet for this need. These toys encourage birds to pull, tear, and chew - which can help:

    Redirect their focus away from their own feathers.

    Provide mental stimulation and keep boredom at bay.

    Encourage natural beak use and satisfy chewing instincts.

    By giving them something else to “preen” such as a paper, palm leaf, or other bird-safe materials, you can help reduce over-preening behaviours and improve your parrot’s wellbeing.

    Our Shredding Toys

    At Betarah Birds, we stock a range of parrot safe shredding toys designed to keep beaks and minds busy. From colourful paper tassels to woven palm shredders, there’s something for every size and species.


Natasha Murphy