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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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of oxpecker1

First recorded in 1840–50; ox + pecker
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Example Sentences

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

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