hooded sheldrake

Thân thiện

A male hooded sheldrake swims on a calm pond.

Definition

Noun: 1. A species of diving duck: The term "hooded sheldrake" refers to a small North American duck, specifically the male of which is characterized by a distinctive, high, circular crest of feathers on its head that resembles a hood. This bird is more commonly known today as the hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus).

Usage Notes

• This term is an older, common name for the bird. In modern ornithology and general use, "hooded merganser" is the standard and preferred term.
• The defining feature referenced in the name is the striking black-and-white crest, which the male can raise and lower.

Examples

• We spotted a hooded sheldrake diving for fish in the pond.
• The male hooded sheldrake is easily identified by its fan-like crest.

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in historical texts, older field guides, or in regional contexts.

Variants and Related Words

• Hooded merganser (n): The modern common name for the same bird species ().
• Merganser (n): The general term for a subfamily of diving ducks with slender, serrated bills for catching fish, to which the hooded sheldrake belongs.

Synonyms

• Hooded merganser
• (Scientific name)

Học thuật

Noun

1. small North American duck with a high circular crest on the male's head

Từ đồng nghĩa

• hooded merganser
• Lophodytes cucullatus