Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bluish-grey North American hawk known for its swift, darting flight: The term "blue darter" is a common name for a specific species of hawk, scientifically classified as Accipiter cooperii, also known as Cooper's hawk. It is characterized by its blue-grey upper plumage and its agile, rapid hunting flight through wooded areas.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a blue darter swooping through the forest after a sparrow.
  • The blue darter is a skilled predator of other birds.

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in North American ornithology and birdwatching contexts. It is an informal common name, with "Cooper's hawk" being the more formal and widely recognized term in scientific and field guide contexts.

Variants and Related Words

• Cooper's hawk (n): The formal common name and species designation for the blue darter.
• Accipiter (n): The genus of birds of prey that includes the blue darter/Cooper's hawk, known for short wings and long tails adapted for maneuvering in forests.

Synonyms

• Cooper's hawk: The direct synonym and standard common name.
• Bird hawk: A general term sometimes used for accipiters that prey on other birds.

Notes on Meaning

• The name "blue darter" specifically references two key traits: its predominantly bluish-grey coloration and its characteristic darting flight pattern when pursuing prey through dense cover. It does not refer to the color "blue" in an emotional context or to a projectile ("dart") as an object.

Noun

1. bluish-grey North American hawk having a darting flight