autogrooming

Autogrooming is the self-directed grooming behavior by which animals clean and maintain their own bodies. It is observed across a wide range of taxa, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and some invertebrates. Common actions include licking, nibbling, scratching with limbs, rubbing against surfaces, and preening with the beak or mouthparts. In birds, preening also involves distributing oils and aligning feathers; in insects, cleaning antennae and legs is typical.

The primary functions of autogrooming are hygiene and parasite removal, which help reduce ectoparasites and skin irritation. Grooming also serves to maintain the integrity of fur, scales, or feathers, aiding thermoregulation, waterproofing, and sensory function. In some species, autogrooming additionally provides tactile stimulation and stress relief, while in birds and mammals it can support normal social signaling by ensuring visibility of the body surface and plumage or fur condition.

Patterns and regulation vary by species and context. Grooming can be organized as a sequence of motor acts or occur as flexible, repetitive behavior. It may be influenced by parasite load, environmental conditions, and developmental stage. Excessive autogrooming can indicate health problems such as skin disease, allergies, pain, or elevated stress, and is sometimes monitored as a welfare indicator in captive animals.

In research and animal care, autogrooming is distinguished from allogrooming, the grooming of others, and is used to study motor control, ecological adaptation, and welfare.