December 13, 2014 – Yellow-billed Oxpecker (Buphagus africanus)

Requested by: Eric Stephen Bias

Known for their habit of picking parasites from the backs of large mammals, these birds are found in savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. They eat ticks and other biting insects and also take blood from the wounds of the host animals. Much of their time, aside from drinking, bathing, and nesting, is spent on the backs of buffalos, rhinoceros, and other large quadrupeds. They nest in tree cavities, lining them with fur. Outside of the breeding season, they often roost on the backs of their host animals at night.