allopreening

Allopreening is a behavior observed in birds where one bird grooms the feathers or skin of another. This action is typically directed at areas the recipient bird cannot easily reach itself, such as the top of its head. Allopreening is a form of mutual grooming, which helps to strengthen social bonds within a group or colony. While birds engage in self-grooming, known as preening, to maintain their feathers for insulation and flight, allopreening is a social interaction. This behavior is not unique to birds and can be seen in other animal groups, like monkeys.123