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Glite Dictionary
Xenicus

Xenicus

9.9
Small birds that eat insects and live only in New Zealand forests
  • noun
  • Specialized
: Xenicus
  • The rare Xenicus species are found only in remote New Zealand forests.

Examples

  • Scientists study Xenicus to understand the unique evolution of New Zealand's birdlife.

  • Loss of habitat threatens some members of the Xenicus genus.

  • The Xenicus is known for its unique feeding habits.

  • Did you see a Xenicus in the garden?

  • Scientists study the Xenicus genus to understand the unique evolution of New Zealand's birdlife.

  • Loss of habitat threatens several members of the Xenicus family of birds in New Zealand.

  • The rare Xenicus species are found exclusively in the native forests of New Zealand.

Synonyms

genus Xenicus
vsXenicus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of small birds from New Zealand that eat insects, including the rifleman

is the same meaning but omits the technical term passerine

Compounds

genus Xenicus
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of small birds from New Zealand that eat insects, including the rifleman

Xenicus gilviventris
  • Specialized
9.9

A small short-tailed bird from New Zealand that looks like a wren

Surface Forms

Xenicus singular
Xenicuses plural

Etymology

The word Xenicus comes from the Greek roots xen- and xenos, which mean 'stranger' or 'foreign'. That image helps you remember these small birds are found only in New Zealand, so the name reminds you they are 'strange' or special to that place.