One interesting observation regarding the dynamic between deer and birds revolves around another symbiotic relationship, though one that is significantly more imbalanced: the connection between deer and ticks. Deer, seemingly unintentionally, serve as hosts for ticks. They provide nourishment through their blood, and at times offer ticks a place to lay their eggs. Regrettably, the deer do not receive any benefits from this arrangement apart from suffering from blood loss. Unfortunately, deer do not possess substantial defenses against ticks on their own, resulting in a symbiotic relationship that leans towards the parasitic side. The minuscule ticks gain a dwelling, a food supply, and a potential breeding ground, while the deer become debilitated due to blood loss. Fortunately for the deer, another species intervenes to come to their aid.
When a deer is experiencing significant blood loss due to unwanted ticks, specific bird species step in to provide assistance. Birds such as the oxpecker land on deer, consume the ticks from their fur, and offer their hosts a sense of relief. This mutually beneficial relationship benefits both parties, with the birds obtaining a food source and the deer ridding themselves of bothersome parasites. This explains why the deer in the aforementioned video appears completely unperturbed by the presence of birds on their fur. Moreover, these symbiotic bird species often groom their deer counterparts in the process, cleansing the deer and collecting small tufts of fur to reinforce their nests. It proves to be a mutually advantageous collaboration, albeit not without its implications for the ecosystem.
For a long time, it has been well-documented that ticks, particularly black-legged or deer ticks, are carriers of Lyme Disease. They acquire the disease during their pupal or larval stages and transmit it to their hosts, such as deer. There is a possibility that birds may then contribute to further spreading Lyme Disease, although this is still being investigated. The natural world is filled with numerous symbiotic relationships among animals that strike a balance between predation and preservation. While the interaction between deer and birds may potentially contribute to disease transmission, it offers immediate benefits to both parties.
