skarptågiga

Skarptågiga is a Swedish term that translates to "sharp-tailed" in English. It is primarily used to describe certain types of birds, particularly those belonging to the grouse family (Phasianidae). The defining characteristic of a skarptågiga bird is the appearance of its tail feathers. Instead of being rounded or evenly fanned, the tail feathers are notably pointed or sharply tapered, giving the tail a distinctly sharp or angular look.

This specific tail morphology is a key distinguishing feature for identifying certain species of grouse. For example, the hazel grouse (Tetrastes bonasia), known in Swedish as skogsfågel or skogshöna, is often described in relation to its tail shape. While not exclusively used for all grouse species, the term skarptågiga emphasizes this particular anatomical detail. The sharpness of the tail can vary subtly between species and even between individuals, but it serves as a useful descriptive element in ornithological contexts, particularly within Swedish literature. It is a characteristic that aids in classification and identification within the avian world.