1. A small African bird that feeds on parasites, ticks, and insects found on the skin and fur of large mammals such as zebras, antelopes, and rhinoceroses.
Usage: Also called tick-bird.; Genus Buphagus.

Examples

• The oxpecker perched on the zebra's back, picking off parasites.
• Oxpeckers have a symbiotic relationship with large African mammals.
• A rhinoceros stood still while an oxpecker cleaned its skin.
• The oxpecker's sharp beak is perfectly adapted for removing ticks.
• Safari guides often point out oxpeckers as examples of mutualism in nature.
• Oxpeckers are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa.