Ephthianura

/ɛfˌθiəˈnjʊrə/ noun

Definition

A genus of small Australian songbirds commonly known as whydahs or chats.

Etymology

From Greek 'ephthian' meaning 'broken' or 'shattered,' and '-oura' meaning 'tail,' referring to the birds' short or broken tail feathers.

Kelly Says

These little Australian birds have scientific names that describe their features—the ancient Greeks were mixed with modern taxonomy, creating poetic-sounding names for tiny creatures down under.

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