Bobwhite Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bobwhite

[หˆbรคbหŒhwฤซt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

bird species

The bobwhite is a small, ground-dwelling bird native to the United States, known for its distinctive call, which sounds like 'bob-white'. It typically inhabits open grasslands and scrublands. This bird is a popular game species, often hunted for sport. Bobwhites are social animals and tend to form coveys in the wild, consisting of several individuals. They play an important role in their ecosystem as both prey and seed dispersers.

Synonyms

grouse, quail.

Examples of usage

  • The hunter tracked the bobwhite through the tall grass.
  • Bobwhites can often be seen in small groups near fields.
  • We heard the unmistakable bobwhite call while walking in the woods.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Natural Habitat

  • Bobwhites thrive in open grasslands, fields, and farmland, where they can easily find food like seeds and insects.
  • They prefer an understory of grass and shrubs where they can hide from predators and raise their young.
  • These birds are social and often found in small family groups, known as coveys, especially during the winter months.

Cultural Significance

  • Bobwhite quail hunting is a popular tradition in various parts of the United States, especially in the South.
  • The presence of bobwhite populations reflects the health of their ecosystems, making them important for conservation efforts.
  • In some cultures, the bobwhite is a symbol of the common outdoor life, often celebrated in folk songs and stories.

Behavior

  • Bobwhites are ground-dwelling birds that prefer to run rather than fly, often relying on their camouflage to avoid danger.
  • During the mating season, males are known for their singing, which attracts females and establishes territory.
  • These birds have an interesting habit of dust-bathing, which helps keep their feathers clean and free of parasites.

Conservation Status

  • Over the past few decades, bobwhite populations have been declining due to habitat loss and changes in farming practices.
  • Conservation efforts focus on restoring native grasslands and implementing sustainable farming to support their habitats.
  • Organizations work to monitor bobwhite numbers and promote hunting regulations to ensure the species remains a part of the ecosystem.

Origin of 'bobwhite'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'bobwhite' comes from its call, which sounds like 'bob-white'. This distinct sound helps people identify it.
  • The term 'bob' refers to its bouncy movement when it walks, while 'white' describes the bird's markings.
  • In some regions, the bird is also known as the 'Virginia quail', highlighting its connection to the state of Virginia.

The term 'bobwhite' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the bird's distinctive call. It is a combination of 'bob', representing the bird's behavior and 'white', highlighting its characteristic white throat and facial markings. The northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), specifically, became a common name as it was recognized across different regions of North America. Historically, bobwhites played significant roles in both indigenous cultures and the development of hunting practices, as they were abundant in grassland and brush habitats. Their populations and distribution patterns have been affected by habitat changes due to agriculture and urbanization, making efforts for conservation increasingly vital.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,730 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.