1981/09/01 by W. R. J. Dean, I. A. W. Macdonald · 2 citations
Immunology and Microbiology · Environmental Science · #Bird parasitology and diseases #Vector-borne infectious diseases #Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies
paper · doi:10.1080/00306525.1981.9633599
openalex publication_date 1981/09/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
Summary Dean, W. R. J. & MacDonald, I. A. W. 1981. A review of African birds feeding in association with mammals. Ostrich 52:135–155. Feeding associations between African birds and mammals are defined. 96 species of birds show, or possibly show, some form of feeding associations with mammals. Five major categories of feeding association are identified, which differ in relative importance in the various habitat types of Africa. In the most widespread and common feeding association the bird obtains cryptic prey items flushed by the mammal, The opportunistic nature of most bird/mammal feeding associations is stressed. Hypothetical courses In the evolution of the more complex feeding associations are discussed. The possible significance of bird/mammal feeding associations in their biology and conservation is outlined. The lack of quantitative information on these feeding associations limits the conclusions that can be drawn, although their significance for the obligate ectoparasite gleaners, Buphagus species, appears to be clear.