GOATSUCKER Meaning and
Definition
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Goatsucker is a noun that refers to a nocturnal bird belonging to the subfamily Caprimulginae or the family Caprimulgidae, commonly found in warm regions across the globe. It encompasses a diverse group of birds that are characterized by their unique feeding habit of sucking milk from goats and other mammals, which has given rise to their peculiar name.
These birds, often called nightjars or nighthawks, have a distinct appearance with long wings, short legs, and wide mouths adorned with bristles. They possess soft, cryptic plumage that aids in camouflage during daytime roosting. Goatsuckers have exceptional nocturnal hunting abilities, feeding on insects such as moths, beetles, and mosquitoes, which they catch on the wing.
The name "goatsucker" is a historical relic of the belief that these birds suck the milk of goats, helping perpetuate the misconception that they were harmful to livestock. In reality, their consumption of insects indirectly benefits humans by reducing pests that harm agricultural crops. However, their unusual feeding behavior, combined with their haunting calls during the night, has led to folklore and superstitions surrounding them in various cultures.
In conclusion, goatsucker is a term utilized to describe a group of nocturnal birds known for their unique feeding habits, particularly their alleged milk-sucking behavior. While the name may be rooted in folkloric misconceptions, it refers to birds that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GOATSUCKER
- foatsucker
- voatsucker
- boatsucker
- hoatsucker
- yoatsucker
- toatsucker
- giatsucker
- gkatsucker
- glatsucker
- gpatsucker
- g0atsucker
- g9atsucker
- goztsucker
- gostsucker
- gowtsucker
- goqtsucker
- goarsucker
- goafsucker
- goagsucker
- goatuscker
Etymology of GOATSUCKER
The word "goatsucker" originates from the Middle English term "gatesucre", which was used to refer to the European nightjar, a bird species found in Europe and Africa. The name "goatsucker" came about due to a once-held belief that these birds sucked the milk from goats. This belief was largely based on the nightjar's habit of catching insects, including moths, at dusk, which may have given the appearance of sucking on the udders of grazing animals. The Latin name for the European nightjar, "Caprimulgus", also reflects this association, as it translates to "goat milker". Over time, the term "goatsucker" has come to be used to describe other nocturnal animals such as the common nighthawk or the oilbird, even though they do not indulge in such practices.
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