side by side

gourd , pigments , iron oxide

There are many wonderful symbiotic relationships among creatures in the natural world. The red-billed oxpecker rides on the back or head of rhinoceroses to eat parasites from its skin. Rhinos do not have good eyesight, but when the oxpecker spots  humans in the distance, it makes an alarming sound to warn the rhino of danger. It is hoped that this unique symbiotic relationship will help the rhinos escape poachers.