Title:
Breeding biology of the redbilled oxpecker in the Kruger national park
Author(s):
Publication Year:
1982
Abstract:
The nest of the Redbilled Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus in the Kruger National Park is a natural hole in a tree where no excavation is required. No evidence of a territorial system WBS observed and only the nesting tree is defended. Mammal hair, dung, grass and rootlets are used for nesting material. The average clutch size was 2.8 eggs with a mean incubation period of 12,6 days. The average nestling period was 30 days. The Redbilled Oxpecker can raise three broods in a season of 176 days such as in the 1973/74 breeding season. The activity area of one breeding group was 7,0 km2. The breeding unit consists of two to five birds with helpers of both sexes. All the birds in a group help to select a nest site, build the nest and feed the young. Only one male and one female participate in incubation. Post-hatching development was studied in 13 chicks.
Publication Title:
Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology
Volume:
53
Issue:
2
Pages:
79 - 90
Item Type:
Journal Article
Language:
en