Here's why:

* Abundant: Neutrophils make up the majority of white blood cells (WBCs), comprising around 50-70% of the total WBC count.

* First Responders: They are the first line of defense against invading pathogens and are quickly recruited to sites of infection.

* Efficient Phagocytes: Neutrophils are highly effective at engulfing and destroying bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.

While other phagocytes like macrophages and dendritic cells are also important, neutrophils are the most abundant and critical for initial immune responses.