Comparative feeding behaviour and food preferences of oxpeckers (Buphagus erythrorhynchus and B. africanus) in captivity

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 dependance 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.The articles have been scanned in colour with a HP Scanjet 5590; 600dpi. Adobe Acrobat XI Pro was used to OCR the text and also for the merging and conversion to the final presentation PDF-format.lmchunu2014mn201

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