ardeidae
noun
Meaning
The biological family of birds that includes herons, egrets, and bitterns, characterized by long necks, long legs, and sharp, dagger-like bills.
Examples
- Ornithologists classify the great blue heron within the Ardeidae family due to its distinct anatomical features.
- The wetlands provide a critical habitat for various species of Ardeidae that rely on shallow water for hunting.
Synonyms: heron family, herons, wading birds, ardeids