Apteryx (Noun)
Meaning
Nocturnal flightless bird of New Zealand having a long neck and stout legs; only surviving representative of the order Apterygiformes.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The kiwi is also known by its scientific name, apteryx australis, and is considered an endangered species.
- Researchers spent hours tracking the nocturnal apteryx as it searched for insects in the forest.
- New Zealand is home to five distinct species of apteryx, including the little spotted kiwi.
- Because the apteryx is flightless, its strong legs have developed for walking and running rather than lifting off the ground.
- Scientists are studying the behavior of the apteryx to learn more about this unusual and fascinating bird.