First published in England in 1780, the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is believed to have started as a lyrical poem in Scotland. Inspired as a good-natured competition among families and friends to see who could obtain or see each of the items identified in the song.
Most of us know that on the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a partridge in a pear tree. But did you know, the partridge they’re singing about is said to be the Gray Partridge. A portly game bird with a rusty face, streaks down the sides, and a dark belly patch. Often called “Hungarian partridge” or “Huns”, these birds were introduced to North America from Europe in the early 1900s.
Two Turtle Doves were presented on the second day. A Turtle dove is a medium-sized dove with spotted wings, a distinctive striped neck patch and a bold white tip on a rounded tail. Named for its distinctive “turr – turr” song, which is similar to the Latin word tutur, meaning turtle.
Three French Hens were next. For centuries, the French hen was considered the best bird for eggs and meat. Originating in the 16th century, French hens were considered the “Queen of Poultry” and “The Poultry to the King”. For the French, the hen symbolizes faith, hope and love.
On the fourth day, Four Calling birds were given. Legend has it that Calling birds were originally pronounced as “colly birds” which is a European Blackbird. Colly, is the Old English word for coal, meaning black. Fun fact, that is the reason the Border Collie dog got its name.
Next on the list is Six Geese a laying. Consensus around this bird is that it was the domestic Graylag goose. Rare in North America, yet one of the most common species of geese throughout Europe. If you’re wondering what they look like, it is the Graylag Goose that is often depicted on the covers of old nursery rhyme books.
Working our way through the twelve days, we come to Seven Swans a Swimming. It’s believed the Mute Swan is the bird referenced here. These swans are the large white type most of us think of when we think of swans. For years, these birds were seen as a symbol of romance and elegance. Interestingly, the Mute Swan is considered an invasive species in North America for their aggressive nature and ability to outcompete native birds for food. They’ve even been known to attack humans. However, in the U.K. they are considered a “Royal Bird” and as such, are protected by law known as “The Royal Prerogative”.
There you have it. A total of six different types of birds mentioned in the Twelve Days of Christmas. In case you were wondering if there are any other birds secretly identified in the song, you might be on to something. There is speculation that three additional birds are covertly mentioned, however that story will have to wait for another time.
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 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
