GRAY KINGBIRD Meaning and
Definition
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The gray kingbird, scientifically known as Tyrannus dominicensis, is a neotropical bird species belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the Greater Antilles, including Puerto Rico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. This medium-sized passerine bird is renowned for its distinctive gray plumage, reflecting its common name.
The gray kingbird possesses a standardized appearance characterized by its medium length, approximately 23 centimeters, and a wingspan of around 35 centimeters. It features a dark gray head and upperparts, while the underparts are typically paler gray with a white or pale gray throat and breast. The bill is black, straight, and rather long, creating a noticeable contrast against its gray feathers.
This species is well known for its strong and acrobatic flight. It utilizes its broad wings to soar effortlessly in pursuit of insects, which serve as its primary source of food. The gray kingbird is predominantly insectivorous, but it may occasionally consume small fruits or nectar when preferred prey may not be readily available.
Additionally, the gray kingbird is recognized for its territorial behavior, often defending its breeding territories aggressively against predators and intruders. During the breeding season, it builds a compact cup-shaped nest typically in trees or shrubs. Females lay clutches of two to three eggs, which they incubate for around 17 to 18 days.
Overall, the gray kingbird is an iconic bird species known for its distinct gray plumage, strong flight skills, and territorial nature, making it an intriguing species for bird enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Common Misspellings for GRAY KINGBIRD
- fray kingbird
- vray kingbird
- bray kingbird
- hray kingbird
- yray kingbird
- tray kingbird
- geay kingbird
- gday kingbird
- gfay kingbird
- gtay kingbird
- g5ay kingbird
- g4ay kingbird
- grzy kingbird
- grsy kingbird
- grwy kingbird
- grqy kingbird
- grat kingbird
- grag kingbird
- grah kingbird
Etymology of GRAY KINGBIRD
The etymology of the word "gray kingbird" can be broken down as follows:
1. Gray: The word "gray" originates from the Old English word "grǣg". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "grēwaz", meaning "gray" or "dull". The term eventually evolved into "gray" in modern English, referring to the color between black and white.
2. Kingbird: The word "kingbird" is a compound term combining "king" and "bird". It refers to a type of bird that is known for its dominant behavior and aggressive territorial defense. The "king" part of the word likely implies the bird's dominance or regal characteristics, while "bird" simply indicates its avian nature.
Therefore, "gray kingbird" is a term used to describe a species of bird that has a gray coloration and exhibits dominant behavior.
