Pronunciation: [ɹˈɔːte͡ɪl] (IPA) 
The word "Roughtail" is spelled as /rɔːt-teɪl/. "Rough" is spelled as /rʌf/ and "tail" is spelled as /teɪl/. The "gh" in "rough" is silent and serves no purpose in the pronunciation of the word. The double "t" in "Roughtail" distinguishes it from "Routail" and ensures that the "t" sound is pronounced clearly. "Roughtail" is a term that refers to a specific species of fish known for its sharp, spiny tail.
Roughtail is a noun that refers to a large bird species known for its distinctive appearance and behavior. The term is primarily used to describe a type of hawk belonging to the genus Buteo, specifically the Buteo lagopus. Roughtails are characterized by their robust build, broad wings, and a relatively short tail with a rough or featherless appearance towards the tip.
In terms of physical features, roughtails typically have brown or grayish plumage that helps them blend well with their natural environment. Their facial disc shows a pale coloration, often highlighted by dark lines or markings. These hawks are known for their keen eyesight and powerful flight abilities, enabling them to soar high in the skies, searching for prey.
Roughtails primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are skilled hunters, capable of diving down from great heights to catch their prey with their sharp talons. Additionally, roughtails are usually solitary birds, preferring to live and hunt alone or in mated pairs.
The term "roughtail" can also be used more broadly to refer to other bird species that exhibit similar characteristics, such as certain types of eagles or buzzards. However, it is most commonly associated with the Buteo lagopus species. These majestic birds are often admired for their gracefulness in flight and their role in maintaining ecological balance within their habitats.
