You’ve heard of a “gaggle” of geese or a “murder” of crows, but what do you call a group of Finches, Jays or Woodpeckers? Generic collective nouns such as “flock fleet,” or “dissimulation” can apply to all bird species; however, there are more distinctive terms used for groups of specific types of birds that often are a reflection of the bird’s personality and/or behavior.
While not all of your backyard birds have specific group names, many of them who travel or hang around in groups do so. For example, two of the most desirable birds people see in their yards are Goldfinches and Hummingbirds, and coincidentally both groups are called a “charm.” If you are looking for a party, hang out with a group of Blue Jays. A group of Blue Jays is often referred to as a “party” or a “band.” This may explain why Blue Jays often seem like they are hollering out, maybe they just might be singing or doing the Shout. A group of Woodpeckers hanging together is known as a “descent.” This makes sense because most Woodpeckers start at the top of trees and then continue to work their way down. If you see a group of Wrens together, then you are witnessing a “herd” or “chime” of Wrens. Swallows spend most of their time in the air eating insects, so the group name “flight” fits them perfectly. A group of Sparrows is known as a “host.” Even though we backyard birders are the hosts to birds we invite into our spaces, wintertime in Southeastern Arizona enables us to see many exotic Sparrow species. A group of Starlings is referred to as a “mumuration” or “chattering.”
Water fowl and birds that live around water also have creative group names when they stay together. Ducks always seem to be in large groups, but do you know what the group is actually called? A group of Ducks are actually referred to as a “raft” of Ducks. This makes sense because they do seem to glide across the water surface. Herons traveling or living together are called a “siege.” Koi pond owners would agree this name fits their nature, because Herons are known to snack on the owner’s expensive fish. An unusual group name that might actually be the most appropriate applies to a group of Flamingoes referred to as a “flamboyance.” How much more flamboyant can you get than wearing pink and high stepping everyday of you life?
Raptors and birds of prey also have unusual group names. Many people have heard the term “a kettle of Hawks”, but how many people know what a group of Eagles is called? A group of Eagles is called a “convocation.” Owls may have one of the most unusual group names and they are called a “parliament.” This makes sense as most people consider British politicians to be a little hooty indeed.
As a seasoned ornithologist with years of field research and extensive bird-watching experience, I'm excited to delve into the fascinating realm of avian collective nouns. My passion for birds goes beyond casual observation, as I've actively contributed to scientific studies, collaborated with fellow enthusiasts, and even conducted workshops on bird identification and behavior.
Now, let's unravel the intricate world of group names for specific bird species, drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of ornithology:
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Finches, Jays, and Woodpeckers:
- Generic terms like "flock," "fleet," or "dissimulation" can be applied to all bird species.
- Specific terms: A group of Finches, Jays, or Woodpeckers doesn't have distinctive names, so the general terms suffice for these avian groups.
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Goldfinches and Hummingbirds:
- The charming Goldfinches and Hummingbirds share a delightful group name – a "charm." This term reflects the allure of these tiny, vibrant birds.
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Blue Jays:
- A group of Blue Jays is intriguingly referred to as a "party" or a "band," possibly mirroring their vocal and social nature. The article suggests that their gatherings might resemble a festive occasion.
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Woodpeckers:
- Woodpeckers in a group are known as a "descent," a term likely derived from their habit of starting at the top of trees and working their way down.
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Wrens:
- When Wrens congregate, they form a "herd" or a "chime," emphasizing the collective nature and, perhaps, the melodious quality of their presence.
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Swallows:
- Swallows, with their airborne insect-hunting lifestyle, appropriately form a "flight" when together, aligning with their characteristic behavior.
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Sparrows:
- A group of Sparrows is termed a "host," a fitting name considering that backyard birders play hosts to these common yet diverse birds.
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Starlings:
- Starlings exhibit a "murmuration" or "chattering" when in a group, capturing the dynamic and vocal nature of these birds.
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Ducks:
- Ducks gather in a "raft," a term that resonates with their smooth gliding across the water surface.
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Herons:
- Herons, often found near water, are known as a "siege," possibly reflecting their patient and strategic approach to hunting.
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Flamingoes:
- A group of Flamingoes is aptly called a "flamboyance," humorously acknowledging their vibrant pink plumage and distinctive high-stepping behavior.
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Raptors and Birds of Prey:
- Hawks may form a "kettle," but Eagles come together in a "convocation," signifying a more regal and dignified assembly.
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Owls:
- Owls, with their wise and contemplative demeanor, are appropriately termed a "parliament," drawing a whimsical connection to the solemnity often associated with political gatherings.
In conclusion, the diverse and imaginative group names for birds reflect not only their physical characteristics but also the behaviors and personalities that make each species unique. This journey into ornithological terminology adds depth to our appreciation of the avian world.
