Ecosystem Dynamics Terminology

noun the track or scent of an animal

verb to track or trace by following spoor

• The tracker examined the spoor left behind by the elusive animal.
• We followed the spoor to find out where the deer went.
• I saw some spoor on the trail, so I knew the bear was close by.
• The detective carefully studied the spoor of evidence left at the crime scene.

noun the large or giant animals of a particular region or period, especially when considered as a group

• The study of megafauna provides valuable insights into prehistoric ecosystems.
• I can't believe how big those megafauna creatures were back in the day!
• Those megafauna beasts were absolute units!
• In the business world, the megafauna are the big players who dominate the market.

adjective relating to or denoting animals that regulate their body temperature by external means, such as by basking in the sun

• Ectothermic animals rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.
• Cold-blooded animals like reptiles are ectothermic, meaning they need the sun to warm up.
• Those ectothermic critters are always basking in the sun to stay warm.
• Her ectothermic personality only comes alive when surrounded by warm and positive energy.

noun a taxonomic family of diurnal birds of prey that includes hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, and Old World vultures

• The Accipitridae family includes eagles, hawks, kites, and harriers.
• I saw a cool Accipitridae bird soaring in the sky today.
• That Accipitridae chick is a total badass.
• The Accipitridae of the business world are always on the lookout for new opportunities.