Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic group in former biological classifications: "Raptores" was a term historically used in ornithological classification systems to group together certain birds of prey. This grouping is now considered scientifically erroneous as it combined birds from the distinct orders Falconiformes (such as falcons, eagles, and hawks) and Strigiformes (owls).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • In older textbooks, one might find the order Raptores, which included both hawks and owls.
  • The classification "Raptores" is obsolete, as modern taxonomy separates diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Technical Context: The term is primarily used when discussing the history of biological classification or taxonomic errors. It is not used in contemporary scientific discourse for naming living groups.
  • The lecturer explained how the order Raptores exemplified the limitations of morphological-based classification before genetic analysis.

Variants and Related Words

• Raptor (noun): In modern common usage, a "raptor" refers to any bird of prey, especially those in the orders Accipitriformes, Falconiformes, and Strigiformes. This is distinct from the obsolete taxonomic term "Raptores."
  • The sanctuary rehabilitates injured raptors like eagles and owls.

Synonyms

• Birds of prey (general term): This is the common, non-taxonomic term for the group of birds that hunt and feed on other animals.
• Obsolete/Historical taxonomic group: There is no direct modern synonym for the specific, erroneous classification "Raptores."

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Raptores" is archaic and technical. Its primary meaning today is as a historical footnote in the science of ornithology, representing an outdated grouping. It should not be confused with the informal singular "raptor," which is widely used.

Noun

1. term used in former classifications; erroneously grouped together birds of the orders Falconiformes and Strigiformes