07/17/2026
Some cool captures of the Oxpecker trying to get a good meal by cleaning the teeth of these giraffes. It was so cool to see part of nature up close.
There are 2 species: Red and Yellow billed. Oxpeckers feed primarily on ectoparasites such as ticks, flies, and lice found on mammals. Using their strong, flattened bills, they part the hair or feathers of their hosts to seek out parasites. Interestingly, they also consume earwax, dead skin, and blood, particularly from wounds. Perched on the backs of giraffes, zebras, buffalo, rhinos, and antelope, this small but assertive bird is instantly recognisable and plays a curious role in the African bush. See less
