Anidian

/əˈnɪdiən/ adjective

Definition

Lacking a nest or nesting structure; describes animals that do not build or use nests.

Etymology

From Latin an- (without) + nidus (nest) + -ian (adjective suffix). This biological term was created in scientific classification to distinguish species by their nesting or non-nesting behavior.

Kelly Says

Many anidian birds are 'brood parasites' like cuckoos—they've evolved to never build nests because they trick other birds into raising their chicks, which is basically ornithological crime.

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