Barwing

/ˈbɑrˌwɪŋ/ noun

Definition

A small Asian bird known for distinctive bar-like markings on its wings.

Etymology

A descriptive compound of 'bar' (the stripe markings) and 'wing,' created in English ornithological terminology in the 1800s. It literally names the bird for its most visible characteristic.

Kelly Says

Nature's naming system is sometimes clearer than scientific Latin—barwings got their English name because, well, they have bars on their wings! Their taxonomy might be complex, but you could ID one in the field just by remembering the obvious pattern.

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