oxpecker

[ oks-pek-er ]

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.

oxpecker

/ ˈɒksˌpɛkə /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxpecker¹

First recorded in 1840–50; ox + pecker

Example Sentences

Minutes later, a flurry of oxpecker birds rose into the air.

From The Daily Beast