Summer is a time for relaxing outside, enjoying nature and pondering some of life’s mysteries, such as collective nouns. What are collective nouns you ask? They are words used to describe a group of people, animals or things as one unit. Many collective nouns are based on unique characteristics, actions and perceptions which can be heavily influenced by cultural norms of the day. Today, I thought we’d look at some of the collective nouns given to different groups of birds. Feel free to use this at your next party or around the dinner table to impress and amuse both friends and family alike.
First on the list is the Owl. Collectively known as a Parliament. Owls are associated with the Greek goddess Athena, who was the goddess of wisdom and reason. A Parliament, in ancient Greece, was a place where wise leaders gathered.
Next, we have the Blue-Jay collectively known as a Party or Band, due to the noise and rowdiness observed when together. I can attest to that!
One of my favorite collective nouns is the one used to describe the oddly beautiful Flamingo. Any guesses? Due to their striking colour and flashy pretense, when a group of flamingos get together, it’s called a Flamboyance.
Some collective nouns originated from negative cultural perceptions. For example, a group or gathering of Crows is called a Murder. Thought to have originated in medieval times when people believed that Crows were witches in disguise, sent by Satan himself. And I’m sorry to say that the Raven has not fared much better. While considered one of the smartest birds on earth, collectively, they are known as a Conspiracy or an Unkindness. These rather inglorious monikers seem to have their origins rooted in the 19th century when people wrongly believed that Ravens were uncaring parents who expelled their young from the nest too early.
Now for something completely different. The name given to a group of Finches, particularly Goldfinches, is called a Charm. Said to create positive feelings among people when seen. The Goldfinch is a wonderful bird to attract and is indeed charming to watch.
From charming to cheeky. The name given to a group of Chickadees is Banditry, due to their masked-like appearance. These little birds are one of my favorites and in my opinion are anything but bandits.
As Shakespeare once asked, what’s in a name? We’ve seen some rather weird and wonderful names used to identify different groups of birds, each with their own connotation and origin. But before we part, I wanted to leave you with a few more collective nouns that I thought amusing; there’s a Dropping of Pigeons, a Pandemonium of Parrots and a Parcel of Penguins.
Next time you’re out and about and encounter a group of birds, try to remember their collective nouns. You’ll not only impress your friends, but it just might make you as giddy as a Bobbin of Robins.
Founder of Sara Frances Designs and resident birding expert Scott Holland shares his experiences and insights on birding and bird related topics. A craftsman woodworker at heart, Scott’s birdhouses are more than just functional structures; they are works of art that showcase his skill as a woodworker and his deep appreciation for nature. His writings explore interesting topics around birding, nature conservation, and the importance of preserving our natural habitats.
Visit his website at www.sarafrancesdesigns.com or follow him on Instagram at www.instagram.com/sarafrancesdesigns
