CHORDEILES Meaning and
Definition
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Chordeiles is a genus of birds belonging to the family Caprimulgidae, commonly known as nightjars. The name Chordeiles is derived from the Greek words "chordē" meaning cord or string, and "eilēs" meaning resembling or having the nature of something.
These medium-sized birds are primarily found in the Americas, ranging from southern Canada to Argentina. They are known for their nocturnal habits, being most active during the twilight hours, and for their camouflaged plumage that allows them to blend into their surroundings.
Nightjars within the genus Chordeiles are characterized by their long wings, short legs, and broad mouths with bristles around the beak. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of flying insects such as moths, beetles, and mosquitoes. Their long wings enable them to perform impressive aerial acrobatics as they hunt for prey.
The members of the genus Chordeiles also possess unique vocalizations, typically producing distinctive musical calls often described as a combination of chirps and trills. These calls are used for territory defense, courtship, and communication among individuals.
Due to their nocturnal nature and excellent camouflage, nightjars within the genus Chordeiles can be quite elusive and difficult to spot. However, their unmistakable calls and remarkable flight patterns make them an intriguing and sought-after sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Common Misspellings for CHORDEILES
- xhordeiles
- vhordeiles
- fhordeiles
- dhordeiles
- cgordeiles
- cbordeiles
- cnordeiles
- cjordeiles
- cuordeiles
- cyordeiles
- chirdeiles
- chkrdeiles
- chlrdeiles
- chprdeiles
- ch0rdeiles
- ch9rdeiles
- choedeiles
- choddeiles
- chofdeiles
Etymology of CHORDEILES
The word "Chordeiles" is derived from ancient Greek. It comes from the combination of two Greek words: "chordē" (χορδή), meaning "gut" or "intestine", and "eilēs" (εἴλης), meaning "flexible" or "pliant". The term was coined by the French ornithologist Charles Lucien Bonaparte in 1838 to classify a group of birds commonly known as nighthawks, which have expansible throats that allow them to capture insects during flight. The name "Chordeiles" thus alludes to their flexible throats or gullets.
Similar spelling words for CHORDEILES
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