Abnormal behaviour in parrots occurs when parrots that are captive are unable to perform their natural behaviour (Engebretson, 2006). Parrots try to adapt to their environment may have difficulty in doing so which results in abnormal behaviour (Engebretson, 2006.; Hoek & Cate, 1998).

Feather picking, apathetic behaviour, restlessness and screaming are several adnormal behvaiours that parrots display. Overeating and self-mutilation are also abnormal behaviours that parrots demonstrate. Another abnormal behaviour which appears frequently in parrots is aggressive behaviour. These behaviours appear to be a result of isolation from other parrots and attachment to their owners. Weaving which is seen in parrots such as Cockatoos is an abnormal behaviour which is similar to that of pacing stereotyped behaviour observed in zoo animals. If there is a lack of social interaction for pet parrots, these abnormal behaviours will most likely be performed. (Hoek & Cate, 1998)

An example of a feather picking parrot.