Illustration of secretary bird
secretary bird
noun
: a large long-legged bird of prey (Sagittarius serpentarius of the family Sagittariidae) of sub-Saharan Africa that feeds largely on reptiles
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web The presence of humans—mainly herders—is known to interfere with secretary bird breeding. 
National Geographic, 26 June 2020 While their signature feather crown and slender legs give these birds a regal air, the secretary bird is more mobster than monarch. Michael Cross; Story By Tom Page, CNN, 9 July 2020 The secretary bird is distinguished by its long legs and a dramatic black crest of feathers on the back of its head. National Geographic, 26 June 2020 The secretary bird is the tallest bird of prey in the world. National Geographic, 26 June 2020
National Geographic, 26 June 2020 While their signature feather crown and slender legs give these birds a regal air, the secretary bird is more mobster than monarch. Michael Cross; Story By Tom Page, CNN, 9 July 2020 The secretary bird is distinguished by its long legs and a dramatic black crest of feathers on the back of its head. National Geographic, 26 June 2020 The secretary bird is the tallest bird of prey in the world. National Geographic, 26 June 2020 Word History
Etymology
probably from the resemblance of its crest to a bunch of quill pens stuck behind the ear
First Known Use
1824, in the meaning defined above