The word fulmar, which refers to a type of seabird, is spelled as /ˈfʊlmər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial "f" is pronounced with the lips touched to upper teeth, followed by the "ʊ" sound as in "put". The "l" is emphasized with the tip of the tongue touching the upper palate, and the final "m" is formed with the lips pressed together. The "a" is pronounced as in "father". The spelling of fulmar is consistent with English phonetics and pronunciation.
A fulmar is a seabird belonging to the family Procellariidae, known for its distinctive appearance and behavior. Specifically, fulmars are medium-sized birds with stocky bodies and long wingspans, typically measuring around 40-50 centimeters in length. They have a robust build, with a stout bill and short legs. Fulmars are commonly found in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic regions.
These birds are known for their remarkable adaptation to marine life. They possess a specialized gland near the nasal passage that excretes a pungent oil. When threatened or disturbed, fulmars can project this oil towards their predators, creating a potent and foul-smelling defense mechanism.
In terms of diet, fulmars are primarily scavengers, feeding on fish, squid, and other marine animals. They are often observed in large numbers near fishing boats, where they scavenge for discarded scraps. Fulmars are also exceptional fliers, capable of soaring effortlessly over the ocean for extended periods.
Moreover, these birds are known for their colonial nesting habits, often gathering in large colonies on cliffs or rocky outcrops. Fulmars are typically monogamous and lay a single egg per breeding season.
Due to their adaptability and abundance, fulmars are considered a widespread and successful seabird species. They play an important role in marine ecosystems as indicators of ocean health and provide valuable insights into the overall environmental condition of their habitats.
The word fulmar traces its etymology back to Old Norse, specifically the term fugl-már, where fugl meant bird and már indicated seagull. This Old Norse word eventually evolved into fulmur in Middle English, which then transformed into the modern-day term fulmar.