About Buphagus erythrorhynchus (Stanley, 1814)
Species Identification
Buphagus erythrorhynchus, the red-billed oxpecker, can be described based on traits of its juvenile stage, flight, and vocalization.
Juvenile Plumage
Juvenile red-billed oxpeckers have darker brown plumage than adult individuals.
Juvenile Bill Development
When juveniles first hatch, their bills are dark olive, and these bills gradually develop the full adult coloration by the time juveniles are four months old.
Flight Characteristics
This species has strong, direct flight.
Vocalization
Its call is a hissy, crackling trik-quisss.
Native Habitat Type
This bird is native to the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa.
Geographic Range
Its range extends from Ethiopia and Somalia, through Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia, all the way to southern Africa, including Botswana, Zimbabwe, southern Mozambique, and north-eastern South Africa.
