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Contopus sordidulus

Contopus sordidulus

9.9
A small flycatcher bird in western North America with a thin body and clear call
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Contopus sordidulus
  • The distinctive call of the Contopus sordidulus makes it easier to identify among other flycatchers.

Examples

  • Researchers are studying the migration patterns of Contopus sordidulus across North America.

  • Birdwatchers often spot the Contopus sordidulus in pine forests during the summer months.

  • The Contopus sordidulus is often seen perched on low branches.

  • Have you ever spotted a Contopus sordidulus in the wild?

  • Birdwatchers often spot the Contopus sordidulus in pine forests during the summer months.

  • The distinctive call of the Contopus sordidulus makes it easier to identify among other flycatchers.

  • Researchers are studying the migration patterns of Contopus sordidulus across North America.

Synonyms

western wood pewee
vsContopus sordidulus
  • US
9.6

A small grayish bird in western North America that sits on branches and catches insects with a clear song

is the scientific Latin name for the same species

Surface Forms

Morphology

Contopus + sordidulus

This is a Latin binomial scientific name (a taxonomic label) rather than a compositional English phrase; knowing 'Contopus' as a genus does not allow a learner to infer the species-specific meaning, and the second element 'sordidulus' is not a standard English word in the provided dictionary. Proper names and scientific epithets are arbitrary labels for a species and do not transparently convey the fuller meaning (“a small flycatcher native to western North America”) to a B1 learner.

Etymology

Contopus sordidulus may come from old words that describe a small, plain flycatcher. Sordidulus suggests 'a little dirty' or dull colour, and the bird often sits on a branch and darts out to catch insects, so the name helps you remember it is a small, plain flycatcher from western North America.