OXPECKER
(Renostervoel or Bosluis voel)
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This cache forms a part of the YWP Bird series.
For a full list of all the birdies CLICK HERE
I DECIDED TO DO THIS BIRD TRAIL IN YELLOWWOOD PARK, SEEING THAT ALL STREETS ARE NAMED AFTER BIRDS. I HOPE PEOPLE WILL BECOME MORE AWARE OF THESE BEAUTIFUL BIRDS WHICH WE SEE EVERY DAY AND TAKE FOR GRANTED... IT OPENED MY EYES.
Don't forget to treat this birdie like you would like your cache to be treated.
Please Bring your own Pen
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QUICK FACTS
Sexes alike. Nest in tree cavities
They feed on insects (ticks) as well as insects infecting wounds. Sometimes they are making the wound bigger to drink blood but this can lead to major infection and it can lead to the dead of the host animal.
Oxpeckers feed exclusively on backs of large mammals. The smallest regularly used species is the Impala. Smaller antelope and camels are avoided.
You get 2 different ones. The major difference:The Yellow-billed has yellow based bills and lacks eye rings.The Red –billed has a all red bill and large yellow eye rings.
Some years ago they were regarded as Near threatened but was then slowly reintroduced in game reserves. Today they are fairly well established in South Africa. They are of great importance to rid animals from ticks which can take over and kill a animal.
Kill two birds with one stone.
to manage to do two things at the same time instead of just one, because it is convenient to do both
HOPE YOU ENJOY THE CACHE