antbird

[ant-burd]

noun

1. any of numerous passerine birds of the family Formicariidae, of the New World tropics, many species of which follow army ant swarms to feed on insects disturbed by the ants.

Word History and Origins

Origin of antbird¹

ant + bird

Example Sentences

Dr. Yong at first thought someone was playing a prank — that he was looking at a photoshopped image, perhaps of an antbird from Ecuador.

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About 45 minutes later, Moraes came across a different moth drinking from the eye of another resting antbird.

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The antbird story also demonstrates the vividly baklavaian nature of parasitism in a tropical rain forest.

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The construction of new roads in the antbird’s habitat has made it easier to clear land for cattle ranching and soy production.

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As the biggest, most dominant member of the antbird guild and an “obligate” parasite — one that cannot find food on its own — the ocellated antbird monopolizes the leading edge and snaps up the meatiest prey.

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