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Glite Dictionary
Catharacta

Catharacta

9.9
A group of large seabirds that attack other birds in the Southern Hemisphere
  • noun
  • Archaic
translation icon : Catharacta
  • Several taxonomists have debated the classification of Catharacta within the skua family.

Examples

  • The Catharacta species are known for their aggressive behavior towards other seabirds.

  • Researchers observed a Catharacta nest along the remote coastline of South Georgia.

  • The Catharacta is known for its aggressive behavior.

  • Many Catharactas can be seen along the coast of Antarctica.

  • Researchers observed a Catharacta nest along the remote coastline of South Georgia.

  • The Catharacta species are known for their aggressive behavior towards other seabirds.

  • Many Catharactas can be seen along the coast of Antarctica.

Synonyms

genus Catharacta
vsCatharacta
  • Archaic
9.9

A former group of large seabirds called skuas now placed in Stercorarius

is the former group without noting the recent reassignment

Compounds

Catharacta skua
  • Archaic
9.9

A large brown seabird of the northern Atlantic that chases other birds to take food

genus Catharacta
  • Archaic
9.9

A former group of large seabirds called skuas now placed in Stercorarius

Surface Forms

Catharacta singular
Catharactas plural

Etymology

The word Catharacta comes from an old Greek root, the same root as the English word cataract, meaning 'waterfall' or 'to rush down'. These seabirds swoop and attack quickly, so the name helps you remember their fast, 'rushing down' hunting style.