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