Cypseline

/ˈsɪp.səl.iːn/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of swifts and swiftlets, particularly regarding their aerial lifestyle and specialized adaptations.

Etymology

From the order Cypseliformes combined with the adjectival suffix -ine, meaning 'of or relating to.' This term describes the specific features and behaviors associated with the swift family.

Kelly Says

Cypseline birds have totally reorganized their skeleton compared to other birds—their wings are longer and more curved, their spine is more rigid, and their heart is proportionally huge, all because millions of years of living in the air rewrote their anatomy.

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