Definition

Noun: * A finch with a bill whose tips cross when closed: A small, seed-eating songbird characterized by a unique beak where the upper and lower mandibles cross at the tips. This adaptation allows it to efficiently extract seeds from conifer cones.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Loxia curvirostra is easily identified by its distinctive crossed bill.
  • Birdwatchers were thrilled to spot a flock of Loxia curvirostra in the pine forest.
  • The diet of Loxia curvirostra consists primarily of conifer seeds.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Classification: The term Loxia curvirostra is the binomial (scientific) name for the common crossbill. In formal ornithological contexts, it is used to specify this particular species within the genus .
  • The study focused on the foraging behavior of Loxia curvirostra.

Variants and Related Words

• Common crossbill (n): The standard English name for .
• Red crossbill (n): A common name often used for , referring to the reddish plumage of the male.
• Crossbill (n): The general term for birds of the genus , which includes several species like the parrot crossbill ().

Synonyms

• Common crossbill
• Red crossbill

Related Phrases

• Crossed bill: A descriptive phrase referring to the defining physical trait of .
  • The bird's crossed bill is a specialized tool for feeding.

Noun

1. finch with a bill whose tips cross when closed