Broadthroat

/ˈbrɔːdθroʊt/ noun

Definition

A type of hummingbird found in Central and South America, named for its broad throat patch or gorget.

Etymology

From 'broad' plus 'throat,' descriptively naming the bird for its visually distinctive wide throat coloring. Scientific naming practices often use descriptive English terms for common names.

Kelly Says

The broadthroat's iridescent throat feathers are made of tiny hollow tubes that refract light, which is why they can appear completely different colors depending on the angle—that's not paint or pigment, it's pure physics creating a color that doesn't actually exist on the feather itself.

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