Caprimulgidae

/ˌkæprɪˈmʌldʒɪdiː/ noun

Definition

The scientific family name for nightjars, a group of medium-sized nocturnal birds found worldwide that have wide mouths for catching insects in flight.

Etymology

From Latin caprimulgus (goat milker) combined with the Latin suffix -idae, used to denote biological family classifications in scientific taxonomy.

Kelly Says

These birds can open their mouths so incredibly wide—almost as wide as their entire head—creating a built-in insect net that lets them catch flying bugs without even slowing down.

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