A Wattled Starling perches on the back of a wildebeest in the African savanna, demonstrating mutualism.
In the vast landscapes of the African savanna, few sights are as charming as the Wattled Starling (Creatophora cinerea) hitching a ride on the back of a wildebeest.
The starling pictured here lacks the distinctive black and yellow facial markings of a breeding male, suggesting it may be a non-breeding male or a female. Regardless of its status, this bird is on a mission.
The Science of a Free Ride
Starlings hang out with their "big friends" for one primary reason: food. As a wildebeest moves through the grass, its massive weight stirs up clouds of insects. Additionally, the wildebeest’s tough hide is often home to ectoparasites—such as ticks, mites, or fly larvae—which are a prized delicacy for the bird.
In exchange for a mobile buffet, the starling provides a cleaning service, removing pests that would otherwise irritate or harm the host.
Mutualistic Symbiosis: Why We Work Better in Teams
This relationship is a textbook example of mutualistic symbiosis, where both species benefit from the interaction. It’s a natural "win-win."
Beyond the biology, there is a proverbial lesson here. Just like the bird and the beast, we often find our greatest success when we lean into our unique roles to help one another. It’s a reminder of why we work better in teams:
Shared Goals: Both parties get what they need.
Unique Strengths: The wildebeest provides the platform; the starling provides the precision.
Efficiency: They accomplish more together than they ever could alone.
Either way, this bird is hungry, ready to help, and proof that teamwork is wired into the system.
Reminds me of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV): “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
Wait! Here’s a thought
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