Yes, there are two ways to know the gender for sure. If the bird ever lays an egg, it's a female or you can have a DNA test done. The first one is obviously one of the "duh, yeah" statements but I say it only to impress how pretty much impossible it is to know the gender of a parrot, only by looking. There are very, very few parrots who are sexually dimorphic. The behavior you describe may very well be sexual in nature but it is not a firm indicator of gender. Both males and females of most species will pleasure themselves from time to time. Some engage in it more than others. Masturbating on perches, toys, even your hand, is not in the least unusual nor is it harmful. It seems to be more prevalent among males than females but it's not something you can count on beyond doubt. You can have your vet do the DNA test or you can order a kit for free, wait until there is a boo-boo, collect the few drops of blood and have the test done yourself. This is usually the cheaper way to go. I have never wanted to know the gender of one of my parrots bad enough to make it bleed on purpose, (cutting a toenail a tad too short, etc.). However, if we have parrots, it's not if they will ever break a blood feather or have some other minor accident; it's a matter of when. I order the kits and set them aside until something like that happens, then I quickly collect my sample and mail the kit in. You can order them from Click here: Avian Services Center: DNA sexing and disease testing for all species of birds. The kits are free. You don't pay until you mail it in with the sample. The last time I used one, as I recall, it was $20-$25. I have had nothing but good experience with them. They are quick and accurate. You can have your results on line within a day, or two at most, after the sample is received. They will follow up with a printed certificate for you by regular mail. I hope this is helpful but if you have further questions, don't hesitate to ask. Patricia
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