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A taxidermist who had never seen a live specimen mounted a bird with its tail held in the shape of a lyre, a U-shaped, harp-like instrument.

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The male Superb Lyrebird's tail always has the lyre-shape. Its tail feathers are ornately curved, and when on display for a female, can assume the shape of the stringed intrument known as the lyre. The Albert's Lyrebird does not have this feature.

The name "lyrebird" was coined when the first Superb Lyrebird specimen was sent back to England. The lyrebird was named by John Latham, an English physicist and naturalist ... not by a taxidermist.

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βˆ™ 13y ago
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βˆ™ 5mo ago

The Lyrebird got its name due to the shape of its tail feathers, which resemble a lyre, a musical instrument from ancient Greece. The male Lyrebird displays its elaborate tail feathers as part of its courtship ritual.

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Q: How did the Lyrebird get its name?
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Related questions

What is the superb lyrebird's scientific name?

The scientific name of the Superb lyrebird is Menura novaehollandiae.


Is a lyrebird a mammal?

No. A lyrebird is a bird. It gained its name because the male Superb Lyrebird's tail always has the lyre-shape. Its tail feathers are ornately curved, and when on display for a female, can assume the shape of the stringed instrument known as the lyre.


When was Superb Lyrebird created?

Superb Lyrebird was created in 1801.


When was Albert's Lyrebird created?

Albert's Lyrebird was created in 1850.


Which bird's name start with L?

lark lorikeet lyrebird little wren


What sound can't lyrebird copy?

a lyrebird can copy any sound. :-)


What is the average height of lyrebird?

· Species - menura novaehollandiae · Lyrebird - also known as Superb Lyrebird, Edward Lyrebird, Prince Edward Lyrebird, Victoria Lyrebird, Queen Victoria Lyrebird, Lyretail, Native Pheasant · Largest of Songbirds · Male measuring length 80-100 cm, including a tail 70 cm · Weight - 1 kg · Description - a short, sharp, down curved bill, brown colour, strong legs · Male's tail plumage distinguishes them from females. · Lyrebird - imitation other species and sounds


Can the Superb Lyrebird fly?

The Superb Lyrebird can fly, but it rarely does. At night it roosts in trees.


The lyrebird is the emblem for which state?

The lyrebird is the emblem of no Australian state. However, it is on the emblem of the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service.


What are the predators of the lyrebird?

The main predators of the lyrebird are dogs, feral cats, foxes and quolls. Goannas enjoy lyrebird eggs, while larger birds also pose a threat.


How many feather has lyrebird's tail?

Many websites state that the tail of the Superb lyrebird has 16 feathers.


What has two legs and 1 beak?

The Superb Lyrebird (or the slightly smaller Albert's lyrebird) native to Victoria, Australia.