TWITCHER Meaning and
Definition
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Twitcher is a noun that refers to a person who actively seeks out and avidly watches or photographs birds, specifically rare or uncommon species. This term originates from the 1960s in the United Kingdom and has been adopted internationally among birdwatching communities.
A twitcher is characterized by their intense dedication to birdwatching and their sheer enthusiasm for adding rare bird sightings to their list of observations. Typically, these individuals are well-informed about birds and their habitats and often travel long distances or even across countries to witness uncommon avian species.
Twitchers are known for their ability to identify birds by their appearances, sounds, and behavior. They often make use of various resources, such as field guides, binoculars, and spotting scopes, to assist in their birdwatching endeavors. Additionally, twitchers may join online forums or participate in birding groups to stay updated on recent sightings or share their own experiences.
While some may view twitchers as obsessive or competitive in their pursuits, this passion for birdwatching has contributed significantly to the documentation and scientific understanding of bird populations. Their dedicated observation and data collection have helped scientists and conservationists track bird species' movements, population trends, and migratory patterns, ultimately aiding in the preservation and protection of these magnificent creatures.
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One who, or that which, twitches.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TWITCHER
Etymology of TWITCHER
The word "twitcher" originated in Britain in the mid-20th century and refers to a person who avidly pursues or collects sightings of rare birds, particularly for their own personal interest or to add to their birdwatching list.
The etymology of the word is not entirely clear, but it likely comes from the verb "to twitch", which means to make a sudden, quick, or jerky movement. In the context of birdwatching, twitching refers to the act of traveling to see a rare or unusual bird that has been spotted in a specific location. Birdwatchers who engage in twitching are often known to make a sudden and hurried trip to observe the bird before it moves on or disappears.
The word "twitcher" was initially used as a slightly derogatory term to describe these keen birdwatchers who were primarily interested in ticking off rare birds on their lists.
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