oxpecker Definition
either of two African birds that perch on large mammals and feed on ticks and other parasites, one species of which also feeds on blood and is known as the red-billed oxpecker.
Using oxpecker: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "oxpecker" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The oxpecker bird perched on the back of the rhino, eating ticks and other parasites.
Example
Oxpeckers are often seen on the backs of large mammals like giraffes and buffaloes.
oxpecker Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for oxpecker
- tickbird
Phrases with oxpecker
red-billed oxpecker
a species of African bird that feeds on ticks and other parasites as well as blood from large mammals
Example
The red-billed oxpecker is a common sight on the backs of large mammals in Africa.
yellow-billed oxpecker
a species of African bird that feeds on ticks and other parasites from large mammals
Example
The yellow-billed oxpecker is a close relative of the red-billed oxpecker.
Summary: oxpecker in Brief
An 'oxpecker' [oks-pek-er] is a type of African bird that feeds on ticks and other parasites found on the skin of large mammals. They are often seen perching on the backs of animals like rhinos, giraffes, and buffaloes. The red-billed oxpecker is a specific species that also feeds on blood.
