Coccothraustes

/ˌkɒkəθrɔːsˈtiːz/ noun

Definition

A genus of finches and grosbeaks known for their powerful, thick beaks designed for cracking hard seeds and nuts.

Etymology

From Greek kokkos (berry) plus thraustes (breaker, from thrauein to break). The name perfectly describes their seed-crushing ability.

Kelly Says

The hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) has the strongest bite force of any finch relative to body size—its beak can crack cherry pits that would make a human's teeth ache!

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