Nail biting

[bunteti]

My friend just bought a 25 year old African Gray but could not take it with her right away so i am bird sitting. Iv noticed that she picks her nails a lot, one of her nails is completely gone and im starting to think she did it to herself. I have a sun conure so I can read most of her behaviors just not this one. Is it a sign of stress, is there anything I can do?? I just don't want it to escalate and would like to pass on some valuable info to my friend when she come to get her bird in a few weeks.

[Lisa B]

greys actually do widdle their tootsies. its a grey trait. they do it when nervous or scared. she wouldnt have bitten it off herself, tho if it was bitten off in the nest, she will still play with it like her other "nails".
Just try to keep her calm and talk softly. let her know she is ok, and offer her some comfort treats...

[Mango27]

My grey does that too when she is nervous. Not really much you can do about it but speak calmly to her and dont move suddenly, or talk real loud. I think its great that you wanted to find out about it for your friend.