Gonçalo Elias
Well-known member

Hi all,
I would like to understand the origin of these two names:
Calidris melanotos - the specific name stands for black back, however this bird is not really black on the back. Does this name make sense?
Tringa melanoleuca - the specific name means black and white, however these two colours are not a good description of this bird. Perhaps it refers to the dark plumage with pale spots?
Gonçalo
I would like to understand the origin of these two names:
Calidris melanotos - the specific name stands for black back, however this bird is not really black on the back. Does this name make sense?
Tringa melanoleuca - the specific name means black and white, however these two colours are not a good description of this bird. Perhaps it refers to the dark plumage with pale spots?
Gonçalo