Host selection and species preference of the Red-Billed Oxpecker Buphagus Erythrorhynchus in the Kruger National Park

Abstract

The host selection and species preference of the Red- billed Oxpecker was investigated during January and February 1979, in the southern portion of the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa. A total of 19 species of larger mammals were looked at and of these 11 were utilised as hosts. Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis, were found to be the most import- ant host and ranked well above the others as a preferred species. Published data on oxpeckers were reviewed with the view to possible translocation of the birds as a measure to increase their now limited distribution.