Definition

Noun A species of diving duck, the greater scaup, characterized by the male's head having a greenish iridescence. It is a large duck found in North America and other northern regions.

Usage

The term "Aythya marila" is the scientific (Latin) name for the greater scaup. It is used primarily in formal, academic, or birdwatching contexts to precisely identify this specific species.

Examples

• The Aythya marila is often seen in large flocks, called "rafts," on coastal bays during winter.
• Ornithologists conducted a study on the migration patterns of Aythya marila.
• To distinguish it from the lesser scaup, one must note the head shape and the green, not purple, sheen on the male Aythya marila.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification, Aythya marila belongs to the genus and the family Anatidae.
• The name is often used in conservation status reports and ecological research papers.

Variants and Related Words

• Greater scaup: The common English name for Aythya marila.
• Aythya: The genus name for the canvasback, redhead, ring-necked duck, and various scaup species.
• Scaup: A general term for diving ducks of the genus , which includes both the greater scaup (Aythya marila) and the lesser scaup (Aythya affinis).

Synonyms

• Greater scaup
• Bluebill (a regional/common name, though this can also refer to the lesser scaup)

Different Meanings

This term has only one specific meaning: it refers exclusively to the biological species known as the greater scaup. It is not used idiomatically or in other contexts.

Noun

1. large scaup of North America having a greenish iridescence on the head of the male