Birdliming is a word used to describe a method of trapping birds by coating branches in sticky substance. The word is comprised of three syllables: "bird" /bɜrd/, "lime" /laɪm/, and "-ing" /ɪŋ/. The spelling of the word reflects its origins in the Old English word "lim" meaning "birdlime". Despite its archaic roots, birdliming is still practiced today in some countries, although it is generally considered illegal due to the harm it causes to birds.
Birdliming refers to the practice of capturing birds using a sticky substance called birdlime. This viscous material is typically made from the sap or gum of certain trees, mixed with various additives to increase its adhesive properties. Specially designed devices, such as sticks or rods, are coated with birdlime and strategically placed in the birds' flight paths or perching spots. When birds come into contact with the birdlime-coated devices, they become trapped due to the sticky nature of the substance.
Birdliming has historically been employed as a method of hunting and capturing birds for various purposes, including for food, sport, and the pet trade. It has been used in cultures worldwide, dating back centuries. The technique often involves skilled individuals who have knowledge of bird behavior and hunting tactics. Birdliming requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the target birds' habits and habitats.
However, it is important to note that birdliming is widely considered unethical and has been deemed illegal in many countries due to its harmful effects on bird populations and their habitats. It is generally seen as a harmful and cruel practice, causing extreme distress, injury, or death to the captured birds. Conservation efforts and laws have been implemented to protect birds from this method of hunting and to promote their conservation and well-being.
The term "birdliming" is derived from the combination of two words: "bird" and "liming".
The word "bird" originates from Old English "brid" or "bridd", which is related to Old High German "vogala" and Dutch "vogel". These words ultimately trace back to the Proto-Germanic word "wulgô", meaning "bird".
The word "liming" refers to the practice of applying lime as a substance to trap birds. It comes from the Middle English word "lym", which means "birdlime" or "sticky substance". The Middle English term can be traced back to the Old English "li(m)", which means "sticky clay" or "lime".
Combining these two words, "birdliming" refers to the use of lime or birdlime to catch birds, typically by smearing it on tree branches or other surfaces to trap them.