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Bubalus bubalis
Pasture
A number of bird species can frequently be found associating with mammals. The most common of these is the conspicuous Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) with its brilliant white plumage. Getting its name from its association with domestic cattle, in the wild this bird can be seen moving among herds of the larger herbivores such as Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). The Cattle Egret is seen simply opportunistically trailing these animals to get the insects that are flushed out of the grass as they move. The Cattle Egret removes ticks and other ectoparasites from these mammals, and consumes them. They can frequently be seen perching on top of Water Buffalo, especially in longer grass where it is difficult for them to walk. This benefits both species. Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) is also commonly seen to associate with moving animals such as Water Buffalo, for the same reason.
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