Yellow-billed Oxpecker
NameYellow-billed Oxpecker
Common NameYellow-billed Oxpecker
Scientific NameBuphagus africanus
FamilyBuphagidae
Wingspan (cm)34
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)57
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull brown to dark grey, contrasting with pale buff underparts. The most striking feature is its bright yellow bill, which has a prominent red tip. It also has a yellow eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include hissing, churring, and whistling calls, often given while foraging on host animals.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, typically found in areas with suitable large mammalian hosts.
Identifying FeaturesYellow bill with red tip, Dark brown/grey upperparts, pale underparts, Yellow eye-ring, Habit of perching on large mammals
Description
The Yellow-billed Oxpecker is a medium-sized passerine bird known for its symbiotic relationship with large mammals, on which it perches to feed. It has a distinctive yellow bill with a red tip and dark plumage, often seen actively foraging on its hosts.
