| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication: | 1988 |
| Authors: | I. M. Stutterheim, Bezuidenhout, J. D., Elliott, E. G. |
| Journal: | Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research |
| Volume: | 55 |
| Issue: | 3 |
| Pagination: | 173 - 179 |
| Date Published: | 1988 |
| ISBN Number: | 0030-2465 |
| Keywords: | animals, bird, Comparative Study, diet, Feeding Behavior, Food Preferences, lice, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, ticks, Time Factors |
| Abstract: | The feeding methods, activities and behaviour of red-billed and yellow-billed oxpeckers in captivity were compared. Both species were found to be very similar with regard to feeding. The differences observed were a greater dependence on ectoparasites such as flies and larger ticks (Amblyomma hebraeum) and a higher food intake for the yellow-billed oxpecker. These differences are the result of the larger size, limited choice of host animals and closer host/oxpecker relationship of the yellow-billed oxpecker. |
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