TURDUS MERULA Meaning and
Definition
-
Turdus merula, commonly known as the blackbird, is a species of bird belonging to the thrush family (Turdidae). It is widely distributed across Europe, including the British Isles, and parts of Asia and North Africa. The blackbird is characterized by its distinctive overall black plumage, with adult males displaying a bright yellow eye-ring and bill, which contrasts with their dark feathers. Females have similar plumage, although it is somewhat less intense.
These birds inhabit a variety of habitats, from woodlands and gardens to parks and urban areas, often found foraging on the ground for food. Their diet consists of a range of items, including insects, worms, berries, and fruits. Known for their melodious song, particularly the rich and varied song of the adult male during the breeding season, blackbirds are considered exemplary songbirds.
During the breeding season, blackbirds construct cup-shaped nests using stems and blades of grass, bound with mud, and lined with finer materials. The females lay between three to six eggs, which are pale blue or greenish with brownish or reddish spots. Incubation lasts for about two weeks, and both parents contribute to the feeding and care of the young.
Due to their adaptability and wide range, blackbirds are regarded as common and widespread birds. They are often encountered throughout their range and are appreciated for their beautiful songs and striking appearance.
Common Misspellings for TURDUS MERULA
- rurdus merula
- furdus merula
- gurdus merula
- yurdus merula
- 6urdus merula
- 5urdus merula
- tyrdus merula
- thrdus merula
- tjrdus merula
- tirdus merula
- t8rdus merula
- t7rdus merula
- tuedus merula
- tuddus merula
- tufdus merula
- tutdus merula
- tu5dus merula
- tu4dus merula
- tursus merula
Etymology of TURDUS MERULA
The word "Turdus merula" is a scientific name for a species of bird commonly known as the Eurasian blackbird. It comes from Latin, where "turdus" means "thrush" and "merula" means "blackbird".
The Latin word "turdus" is related to the Greek word "trokhos", which refers to a circle or a hoop. This is likely because thrushes often have circular markings on their chest. In ancient times, the word "turdus" was specifically used for thrushes and blackbirds.
As for "merula", it is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*mel-", meaning "dark" or "black". This root gave rise to various words in different languages associated with darkness. In Latin, it led to the creation of "merulus", which referred to the blackbird.
