Bubulcus — Ibis

: Today, they are found on every continent except Antarctica. Nature's Clever Hitchhikers

: They often stand directly on an animal's back to eat ticks and parasites. bubulcus ibis

Their success comes from a unique "commensal" relationship with larger animals. : Today, they are found on every continent except Antarctica

: Some ranchers prefer egrets over pesticides for natural fly control. and parts of Asia. However

: They trail behind cattle, horses, and tractors to catch insects stirred up by movement.

: By the 1940s, they reached Florida and spread across North America.

For centuries, the cattle egret was found only in Africa, Southern Europe, and parts of Asia. However, in the late 1800s, they began an incredible journey.