Red-billed Oxpecker
NameRed-billed Oxpecker
Common NameRed-billed Oxpecker
Scientific NameBuphagus erythrorhynchus
FamilyBuphagidae
Wingspan (cm)30.5
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)54
Plumage DetailsThis species has dull brown upperparts, a pale rump, and buffy underparts. Its most distinctive features are a bright, entirely red bill and a prominent yellow eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallRed-billed Oxpeckers produce a variety of chattering, hissing, and whistling calls. Common vocalizations include 'kss-kss' or 'churr-churr' sounds, often given while foraging or as alarm calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to northern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesBright red bill, Prominent yellow eye-ring, Dull brown plumage with buffy underparts, Habit of perching on large mammals
Description
The Red-billed Oxpecker is a medium-sized passerine bird known for its symbiotic relationship with large mammals, on which it perches to feed. It actively gleans ticks and other ectoparasites from the hide of its hosts, often probing into wounds for blood.
