CROSSBILL Meaning and
Definition
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A crossbill is a medium-sized passerine bird belonging to the finch family, characterized by its distinctive bill which is curved or crossed at the tip. The crossbill derives its name from this unique feature. It is known for its exceptional adaptability to feed on the seeds of coniferous trees, particularly pinecones. The crossed mandibles of the crossbill allow it to pry open the overlapping scales of the cones, exposing the nutritious seeds within. The upper beak crosses to the right in some species, and to the left in others, making it easier for them to extract their preferred food source.
Crossbills are predominantly found in the boreal forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. They are highly gregarious birds, often seen in flocks, and their presence can be detected by their distinct chattering calls. They have a unique ability to detect the ripeness of conifer cones using their specialized bills, allowing them to exploit seasonal fluctuations in food availability. This enables crossbills to thrive even in harsh environments where other birds may struggle to find sustenance.
Their plumage varies in coloration, with red and green being common hues among different crossbill species. Males and females often exhibit different coloration, aiding in their identification. Crossbills are skilled flyers, capable of rapid and nimble flight, as well as maneuvering through dense coniferous forests with ease.
Overall, crossbills are fascinating birds known for their specialized bill adaptation, foraging behavior, and their ability to inhabit diverse habitats and regions.
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A bird so called from the form of the bill.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CROSSBILL
- xrossbill
- vrossbill
- frossbill
- drossbill
- ceossbill
- cdossbill
- cfossbill
- ctossbill
- c5ossbill
- c4ossbill
- crissbill
- crkssbill
- crlssbill
- crpssbill
- cr0ssbill
- cr9ssbill
- croasbill
- crozsbill
- croxsbill
- croassbill
Etymology of CROSSBILL
The word "crossbill" is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "crohs" meaning "cross" and "byll" meaning "bill" or "beak". This is because of the characteristic crisscross shape formed by the tips of the upper and lower mandibles of a crossbill, which enables them to extract seeds from cones by prying them open. Hence, the name refers to the distinctive crossed appearance of their bills.
Similar spelling words for CROSSBILL
- greaseball,
- Crosspawl,
- crossply,
- crisply,
- crossfield,
- cross-ply,
- grazable,
- cross vine,
- Guerissable,
- crossbeam,
- GRACEBEL,
- crossbar,
- grazeable,
- Corrosible,
- crossbones,
- chrysopelea,
- crispily,
- crisafulli,
- cross bit,
- crossbow,
- cross-file,
- Grasspoly,
- crosby,
- crossable,
- grizabella,
- Coercible,
- Crossbil,
- crossbred,
- coercibly,
- cresapol,
- CRSBL,
- caressable,
- crossbench,
- Crosbie,
- caressible,
- Kresapol,
- crossplay,
- crossbreed,
- crispell,
- crucible.
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