Roosting behaviour and host selection of oxpeckers (Aves: Buphaginae) in Moremi Wildlife Reserve, Botswana, and eastern Caprivi, South West Africa

Abstract

Roosting behaviour and host preferences of oxpeckers were investigated in Moremi and eastern Caprivi. Redbilled oxpeckers were found on six mammal species in Moremi and two in Caprivi. Yellowbilled oxpeckers were found on two host species in Moremi and one in Caprivi. Redbilled oxpecker roosts were located in palm trees in Moremi, while yellowbilled oxpeckers roosted on their host species. Roosting by yellowbilled oxpeckers on their hosts is thought to be the result of their more limited choice of host species.