migratory

Sometimes mi·gra·tive

[mahy-gruh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee]

adjective

1. migrating.

2. periodically migrating.

   a migratory species; migratory workers.

3. pertaining to a migration.

   migratory movements of birds.

4. roving; nomadic; wandering.

migratory

/ ˈmaɪɡrətərɪ, -trɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by migration

2. nomadic; itinerant

migratory

1. Traveling from one place to another at regular times of year, often over long distances. Salmon, whales, and swallows are all migratory animals.

Other Word Forms

• nonmigratory adjective
• premigratory adjective
• unmigrative adjective
• unmigratory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of migratory¹

First recorded in 1745–55; migrate + -ory ¹

Example Sentences

In this investigation, scientists measured concentrations of these chemicals in the tissues and diet of tree swallows, a migratory bird found throughout North America.

Read more on Science Daily

"We're now starting to enter the high-risk period for avian influenza and that is signalled by the movement of migratory birds," he said.

Read more on BBC

It boasts a total of 114 mammal species and attract hundreds of migratory birds including flamingos.

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“Native trees also support local wildlife, specifically ones endemic to our geographical biome. Pollinators, nesting birds, migratory birds and other species rely on them.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

These flies and brine shrimp are essential food for migratory birds including eared grebes, Wilson’s phalaropes and California gulls.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• seasonal 
• transient