Guacharo

/ɡwɑːˈtʃɑːroʊ/ noun

Definition

A large nocturnal bird found in South America that navigates caves using echolocation, similar to how bats find their way in the dark.

Etymology

From Spanish 'guácharo,' derived from Taíno or Arawakan indigenous languages of the Caribbean, the word entered European naturalist literature in the 18th century as explorers cataloged new species.

Kelly Says

The guacharo was one of the first birds recognized by scientists to use echolocation—a Venezuelan cave bird described by Humboldt made it famous, proving nature invented sonar millions of years before humans did.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.