oxpecker

American  

[oks-pek-er] / ˈɒksˌpɛk ər /

noun

1. either of two African starlings of the genus Buphagus, characterized by their habit of riding on large, wild animals and domestic cattle to feed on ticks.

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oxpecker British  

/ ˈɒksˌpɛkə /

noun

1. Also called: tick-bird. either of two African starlings, Buphagus africanus or B. erythrorhynchus, having flattened bills with which they obtain food from the hides of cattle

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Etymology

Origin of oxpecker

First recorded in 1840–50; ox + pecker

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

oxpecker

In Swahili, the red-billed oxpecker is known as askari wa kifaru, meaning "the rhino's guard".

From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026

While searching the reserve for wildlife, Porter photographed a red-billed oxpecker rubbing its bill against a white rhino's skin in the afternoon light.

From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026

In nature, hippos have a symbiotic relationship with carp that swim into their moths and clean their teeth, as well as oxpecker birds who eat parasites off the hippos’ backs.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 13, 2015

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