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Why does my sun conure jiggle its tail and stretch a wing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

Hi, I have a 5yr old male sun Conure and I have noticed that when he is sitting on his perch he will grab the base of his tail (where t attaches the body) and jiggle it whilst stretching out a wing ... he kinda looks like he is trying to do a standard standing bow yoga position. Do you happen to know what this might mean? Thanks Meagan

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rebeccah Wood

Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist

Published on July 30th, 2017

Hello there! This is most likely a normal stretching/preening behavior for Buddy. On the top side of the base of the tail, there is a small, oil-filled sac called the uropygial gland. When a bird grabs the base of the tail at that location, it is usually to get a small amount of that oil on the beak, and then they use it to coat the feathers. This makes the feathers more water-resistant. This could be what he is up to, but if he seems at all uncomfortable, I recommend bringing him to an avian vet for evaluation. It's unlikely that this positioning is any more than stretching and/or preening, but you know your bird best!

Good luck, and I hope that little Buddy continues to thrive! He's a beautiful bird!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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