A Group of Birds Is Called a Flock

A group of birds is called a flock, though many species have more poetic and specific collective nouns depending on context, behavior, and species. For example, a group of starlings in flight may be referred to as a murmuration, while a gathering of owls is often called a parliament. These unique terms fall under the broader category of collective nouns, and understanding what a group of birds is called can enrich both birdwatching experiences and cultural appreciation of avian life. Whether you're exploring ornithology basics or delving into the symbolic richness of birds in literature, knowing the correct terminology—such as why a group of birds is called a flock or more uniquely named assemblies—is essential.

Understanding Collective Nouns for Birds

The most common term for a group of birds is flock. This general word applies across species and situations, especially when birds are seen flying, feeding, or moving together in coordinated patterns. However, English has a rich tradition of assigning imaginative and sometimes whimsical names to groups of animals, particularly birds. These terms, known as collective nouns, date back to medieval times and were popularized in texts like The Book of Saint Albans (1486), which listed elaborate names for animal groups based on perceived behaviors or traits.

For instance, a murder of crows reflects the bird’s dark plumage and historical association with death and omens. A parliament of owls evokes wisdom and solemn deliberation, drawing from folklore and literature such as C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series. While these terms are not used in formal scientific contexts, they remain culturally significant and widely appreciated by bird enthusiasts, writers, and educators.

Common Collective Nouns for Bird Species

Beyond 'flock,' numerous species-specific collective nouns exist. Below is a table highlighting some of the most recognized and poetic examples:

Bird Species	Collective Noun	Origin or Reason
Starlings	Murmuration	From the sound and motion of swirling flocks in flight
Crows	Murder	Folkloric associations with death and superstition
Owls	Parliament	Suggests wisdom and governance; popularized by literature
Geese	Gaggle	Onomatopoeic, mimicking their honking calls
Jays	Party or Scold	Reflects noisy, social, or aggressive behavior
Finches	Charm	Evokes their small, colorful, and pleasing appearance
Swans	Bevy or Wedge (in flight)	'Wedge' refers to V-formation; 'bevy' suggests elegance
Pigeons	Loft or Kit	'Loft' relates to housing; 'kit' is archaic
Sparrows	Host	Old English origin, indicating abundance
Robins	Round	Rare term, possibly referencing circular feeding patterns

These names, while not required for scientific classification, add depth to how we perceive and describe bird behavior. They also serve as excellent tools for educators and nature guides aiming to engage audiences with vivid language.

Biological Reasons for Group Behavior in Birds

Understanding why a group of birds is called a flock begins with biology. Flocking is an evolutionary adaptation that enhances survival through several mechanisms:

• Predator avoidance: Large groups create confusion effects, making it harder for predators to target a single individual. The synchronized movements of a murmuration of starlings, for example, produce mesmerizing patterns that disorient hawks and falcons.
• Improved foraging efficiency: Birds in flocks can share information about food sources. One bird discovering a patch of berries may trigger others to investigate, increasing overall success rates.
• Energy conservation: In migratory species like geese, flying in a V-formation reduces wind resistance. Each bird benefits from the uplift created by the wings of the bird ahead, conserving energy over long distances.
• Social learning: Young birds learn migration routes, feeding techniques, and predator recognition by observing older, experienced individuals within the flock.

Not all birds flock year-round. Some species, such as eagles or owls, are largely solitary outside of breeding seasons. Others, like penguins or flamingos, form massive colonies during nesting periods but may disperse otherwise.

Regional and Cultural Variations in Terminology

While 'flock' is universally accepted in English, regional dialects and cultural traditions influence the use of alternative collective nouns. In rural areas of England, for instance, older terms like 'a charm of goldfinches' or 'a tiding of magpies' may still appear in local storytelling or poetry. Similarly, in North America, birdwatchers might use 'a kettle of hawks' to describe raptors circling in thermal updrafts—a term derived from the visual resemblance to boiling water.

In non-English languages, collective nouns for birds vary significantly. For example, in French, a group of rooks is called une volée de corneilles (a flight of crows), emphasizing movement rather than social structure. These linguistic differences reflect varying cultural relationships with nature and highlight the importance of context when discussing what a group of birds is called globally.

Scientific Classification vs. Poetic Language

It's important to distinguish between colloquial/creative terminology and scientific usage. Ornithologists typically avoid poetic terms like 'murder' or 'parliament' in research papers and field studies. Instead, they use neutral, descriptive language such as 'group,' 'colony,' 'roost,' or 'flight,' depending on the behavior being observed.

• Colony: Used for nesting aggregations, such as seabirds on cliffs (e.g., puffins or gulls).
• Roost: Refers to a resting or sleeping group, often at night (e.g., a roost of crows in an urban park).
• Flight: Describes birds in motion, especially during migration.
• Brood: Specifically refers to young birds under parental care.

Using precise terminology helps scientists communicate clearly and avoid ambiguity. However, this does not diminish the value of traditional collective nouns in education, art, and public engagement with nature.

Practical Tips for Observing Bird Groups

If you're interested in seeing different types of bird groups firsthand, consider the following tips:

1. Visit wetlands or coastal areas: These habitats attract large flocks of waterfowl, waders, and shorebirds. Look for gagglings of geese or flocks of sandpipers during migration seasons (spring and fall).
2. Observe at dawn or dusk: Many species, such as starlings or blackbirds, form large roosts in the evening. Rural towns or reed beds near lakes are ideal locations to witness murmurations.
3. Use binoculars and field guides: Identifying species within a flock requires patience and proper equipment. Apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird can help log sightings and learn more about local populations.
4. Join a birdwatching group: Local Audubon chapters or nature centers often host guided walks focused on flock behavior and seasonal migrations.
5. Respect wildlife: Avoid disturbing nesting colonies or roosting sites. Maintain a safe distance and never attempt to feed wild birds unless permitted in designated areas.

Common Misconceptions About Bird Groups

Several myths persist about bird groupings. One common misconception is that all birds in a flock are the same species. In reality, mixed-species flocks are common, especially in forests, where chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers may forage together for mutual protection.

Another myth is that collective nouns like 'a murder of crows' have scientific validity. While they reflect human interpretation of animal behavior, they are not based on empirical observation. Additionally, people often assume that larger flocks indicate healthier ecosystems, but overcrowding can also signal habitat loss or food scarcity, forcing birds into concentrated areas.

How to Verify Information About Bird Behavior

Given the blend of folklore and science surrounding bird groups, it's wise to consult reliable sources when researching what a group of birds is called or studying their behavior. Recommended resources include:

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology (allaboutbirds.org): Offers authoritative species profiles, audio recordings, and behavioral data.
• National Audubon Society: Provides conservation updates, birding trails, and citizen science opportunities.
• eBird database: Allows users to explore real-time sightings and flock sizes by region.
• Field guides: Books like Sibley’s Guide to Birds offer detailed illustrations and ecological notes.

When encountering unusual collective nouns online, cross-reference them with academic or natural history sources to determine authenticity versus creative invention.

Conclusion: Appreciating the Language and Science of Bird Groups

A group of birds is called a flock, but the full picture includes a tapestry of language, biology, and culture. From the aerodynamic precision of a wedge of swans to the haunting beauty of a murmuration of starlings, collective behavior in birds offers endless fascination. By combining accurate terminology with an appreciation for poetic expression, we deepen our connection to the natural world. Whether you're a casual observer or a dedicated birder, learning what a group of birds is called—and why—enhances every sighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a group of birds generally called?
A group of birds is generally called a flock.

Why is a group of crows called a murder?
The term 'murder of crows' originates from medieval folklore, linking crows’ dark appearance and scavenging habits to omens of death.

Is 'murmuration' only used for starlings?
Yes, 'murmuration' specifically describes the swirling flight patterns of large groups of starlings, especially at dusk.

Do scientists use terms like 'parliament of owls'?
No, scientists use neutral terms like 'group' or 'nesting pair.' 'Parliament of owls' is a literary term with no scientific basis.

Can different bird species form a single flock?
Yes, mixed-species flocks are common, particularly in forested areas where birds cooperate for foraging and predator detection.