Colius

/ˈkoʊliəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of small African birds also known as mousebirds, characterized by their long tails and ability to hang upside down like bats.

Etymology

From New Latin, derived from Greek 'kolios' meaning 'curved' or 'bent,' referring to the birds' distinctive curved posture and spinal flexibility.

Kelly Says

Mousebirds are the only birds that can thermoregulate by entering a torpid state at night, dropping their body temperature dramatically—it's like they have a built-in pause button for survival during cold African nights.

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