tropic bird
Definition
Noun: A tropic bird is a type of seabird, typically characterized by its predominantly white plumage, webbed feet, and long central tail feathers. It is commonly found in tropical oceanic regions and is known for its ability to fly far from coastlines.
Usage
The term "tropic bird" is used to specifically refer to birds of the family Phaethontidae. It is a standard common name in ornithology and general descriptions of tropical wildlife. - We spotted a graceful tropic bird soaring over the open ocean. - The island's cliffs are a nesting site for red-tailed tropic birds.
Advanced Usage
- In ecological context: The presence of tropic birds is often an indicator of healthy, offshore marine ecosystems.
- Researchers study tropic bird populations to monitor the health of the pelagic food web.
Variants and Related Words
- Tropicbird: A common alternative spelling, often used as a single word (e.g., red-billed tropicbird).
- Phaethon: The scientific genus name for tropic birds.
- Bo'sun bird: An archaic sailor's nickname for the tropic bird, likely referring to its call or tail feathers resembling a marlinspike.
Synonyms
- Sea swallow: A poetic or less common synonym, alluding to its graceful flight over the sea.
Noun
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mostly white web-footed tropical seabird often found far from land
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