What is a pyroloxia?

Answer 1

Pyroloxia is a term that refers to an unusual condition in which birds, particularly certain species like the Northern Cardinal, exhibit aggressive behavior and engage in self-destructive actions, such as attacking their own reflections. This behavior is often attributed to territorial instincts or stress, especially during breeding seasons. The term combines "pyro," suggesting fire or heat, with "loxia," meaning to twist or distort, reflecting the intensified, sometimes erratic nature of their behavior.