black vulture
Definition
Noun: 1. A large bird of prey found in southern Eurasia and northern Africa: This refers specifically to the Aegypius monachus, a scavenging bird known for its dark plumage. 2. An American vulture smaller than the turkey buzzard: This refers to the Coragyps atratus, commonly known as the black vulture, a scavenging bird found in the Americas.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Eurasian/African species):
- The black vulture is one of the largest raptors in its range.
- We spotted a black vulture soaring over the mountain ridge.
- Noun (American species):
- A flock of black vultures was circling the field.
- The black vulture has a shorter wingspan compared to the turkey vulture.
Advanced Usage
- The term "black vulture" is context-dependent. In ornithology, it is crucial to specify the scientific name ( or ) to avoid confusion between the two distinct species on different continents.
Variants and Related Words
- Cinereous Vulture (n): An alternative common name for the Eurasian/African .
- American Black Vulture (n): A more precise name for the .
- Vulture (n): The general term for scavenging birds of prey, which includes both black vulture species.
Synonyms
- Scavenger: An organism that feeds on dead organic material.
- Bird of prey: A bird that hunts and feeds on other animals (though vultures are primarily scavengers).
Related Phrases
- A wake of vultures: A collective noun for a group of vultures.
- A wake of black vultures descended on the carcass.
Noun
-
of southern Eurasia and northern Africa
-
American vulture smaller than the turkey buzzard
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
