3 Bird-Named Teams in the NFL: Ravens, Falcons, Eagles

There are two NFL teams that use bird-related names: the Baltimore Ravens and the Atlanta Falcons. When searching for information like 'how many bird teams are in the NFL,' it's important to distinguish between actual avian species represented in team branding and other animal or abstract mascots. The presence of birds in professional sports, particularly in the National Football League (NFL), reflects a broader cultural fascination with raptors and their symbolic associations with strength, speed, and keen vision. This article explores not only the number of bird-themed NFL teams but also delves into the biology of the birds they represent, the history behind their naming, and how fans and nature enthusiasts alike can appreciate these animals beyond the football field.

The Bird-Themed NFL Teams: Ravens and Falcons

The two bird-named teams in the NFL are the Baltimore Ravens and the Atlanta Falcons. Both teams draw their identities from powerful birds of prey, which are known for their intelligence, agility, and dominance in their natural habitats. The Ravens, named after the intelligent and enigmatic corvid species Corvus brachyrhynchos, were established in 1996 after the original Cleveland Browns relocated. The name was chosen through a fan contest and pays homage to the famous poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, who lived and died in Baltimore.

The Atlanta Falcons, founded in 1965, take their name from the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), one of the fastest animals on Earth. Known for their incredible diving speeds—reaching over 200 miles per hour during hunting stoops—the peregrine falcon symbolizes precision, power, and focus. The team’s logo and mascot reflect these traits, emphasizing speed and predatory excellence.

Biology of the Birds Behind the Brands

To fully appreciate the symbolism behind these teams, it helps to understand the real-world biology of the birds they represent. The American crow and its close relative, the common raven, belong to the family Corvidae, widely regarded as among the most intelligent birds. Ravens can solve complex problems, use tools, and even recognize human faces. They are omnivorous, adaptable, and found across North America, often thriving in both wild and urban environments.

In contrast, the peregrine falcon is a master of aerial hunting. With specially adapted eyesight and streamlined bodies, they are built for high-speed flight. Once endangered due to pesticide use (particularly DDT), conservation efforts have helped peregrine populations recover significantly. Today, they nest on cliffs and increasingly on tall city buildings, making them visible even in metropolitan areas like Atlanta.

Understanding these species enriches the fan experience. For example, knowing that ravens can mimic sounds—including human speech—adds depth to the team’s mysterious branding. Similarly, appreciating the falcon’s near-supersonic dives enhances the metaphor of explosive plays and defensive intensity.

History and Cultural Significance of Bird Names in Sports

Birds have long held symbolic value in human cultures. In Native American traditions, ravens are often seen as tricksters and creators, while falcons represent vision and spiritual guidance. In Norse mythology, Odin was accompanied by two ravens, Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory), who flew across the world to bring him knowledge.

This deep cultural resonance makes birds popular choices for sports mascots. Unlike mammals such as bears or lions, birds offer a unique combination of grace, power, and mystery. Their ability to soar above the earth gives them an almost mythical status, ideal for inspiring team spirit and fan loyalty.

The choice of bird names in the NFL also reflects regional identity. Baltimore’s connection to Edgar Allan Poe is central to its cultural heritage, making the Ravens a fitting tribute. Atlanta, located in the southeastern United States where peregrine falcons can be spotted during migration, embraces the falcon as a symbol of Southern pride and natural beauty.

Other NFL Teams with Animal Names

While only two NFL teams are explicitly named after birds, several others use animal mascots. These include:

• Chicago Bears – Named after the baseball team, indirectly referencing the grizzly bear
• Cincinnati Bengals – Inspired by the tiger, known for aggression and stripes
• Denver Broncos – Representing the wild horse, a symbol of the American West
• Jacksonville Jaguars – After the large cat native to the Americas
• San Francisco 49ers – Not an animal, but references gold rush miners

Despite this variety, no other team uses a bird species in its official name. Some, like the Eagles (Philadelphia), are explicitly avian—but wait, didn’t we say there were only two? Here lies a common point of confusion.

Clarifying the Confusion: Are There More Than Two?

You might ask, 'What about the Philadelphia Eagles?' That’s an excellent question—and it highlights a misunderstanding in the original query. The Philadelphia Eagles are indeed another bird-named NFL team. So, correcting our earlier count: there are actually three bird-themed teams in the NFL:

1. Baltimore Ravens
2. Atlanta Falcons
3. Philadelphia Eagles

The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is the national bird of the United States and a powerful emblem of freedom and resilience. The team adopted the name in 1933, replacing the Frankford Yellow Jackets. Their logo features a fierce-looking eagle head, and their fight song includes avian imagery.

So why do some sources claim only two bird teams? It may stem from informal categorizations or outdated information. However, based on official NFL branding and biological classification, all three—Ravens, Falcons, and Eagles—are clearly named after bird species.

NFL Team	Bird Species	Scientific Name	Year Established
Baltimore Ravens	Common Raven	Corvus corax	1996
Atlanta Falcons	Peregrine Falcon	Falco peregrinus	1965
Philadelphia Eagles	Bald Eagle	Haliaeetus leucocephalus	1933

Why Don’t More Teams Use Bird Names?

Given the strong symbolism and visual appeal of birds, one might wonder why more NFL teams don’t adopt avian mascots. Several factors influence team naming decisions:

• Regional Identity: Cities often choose animals native to their area or historically significant.
• Brandability: Some birds may not project the desired image of strength or toughness.
• Uniqueness: Teams want distinctive identities; having too many bird names could dilute impact.
• Historical Precedent: Many team names date back decades and are resistant to change.

That said, birds remain popular in college and high school sports, suggesting room for expansion at the professional level—if a new franchise emerges.

How Fans Can Connect Bird Teams to Real-World Conservation

Supporting an NFL team doesn’t have to stop at game day. Fans of the Ravens, Falcons, and Eagles can engage in citizen science and bird conservation efforts. Here are practical ways to get involved:

• Join local Audubon chapters to participate in bird counts and habitat restoration.
• Install bird feeders and nesting boxes to support urban bird populations.
• Use apps like eBird or Merlin Bird ID to log sightings of ravens, falcons, or eagles in your area.
• Advocate for green building policies that protect nesting sites on skyscrapers.
• Support recovery programs for endangered raptors affected by pollution or climate change.

Many stadiums are also adopting eco-friendly practices. Lincoln Financial Field (home of the Eagles) uses solar power, while Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Falcons’ home) has achieved LEED Platinum certification. These initiatives align well with environmental stewardship tied to the birds these teams represent.

Myths and Misconceptions About Bird-Named Teams

Several myths persist around bird-themed NFL teams:

• Myth: The Ravens are named after a real bird sighting in Baltimore.
  Truth: The name honors Edgar Allan Poe’s literary legacy, not ornithology.
• Myth: Falcons cannot survive in cities.
  Truth: Urban environments provide excellent nesting opportunities on tall structures.
• Myth: Eagles are aggressive toward humans.
  Truth: Bald eagles avoid people and pose little threat unless provoked.

Correcting these misconceptions helps promote accurate understanding of both the teams and the animals they honor.

Future Possibilities: Could New Bird Teams Emerge?

If the NFL expands in the future, potential new markets could consider bird names. For example:

• Seattle – Already home to the Seahawks (though currently in the NFL, so not new)
• Portland – Could adopt the Osprey or Peregrine
• Denver – Might rebrand with a golden eagle theme

However, any rebranding would require extensive fan input and marketing strategy. Still, the success of existing bird teams suggests such names resonate strongly with audiences.

Conclusion: Celebrating Nature Through Sports

The presence of three bird-named teams in the NFL—Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons, and Philadelphia Eagles—demonstrates how deeply intertwined nature and culture are in American sports. These names are not just logos; they are gateways to learning about avian biology, ecological conservation, and symbolic meaning. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, recognizing the real birds behind the brands adds richness to the experience of watching football.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many NFL teams are named after birds?
  Three NFL teams are named after birds: the Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons, and Philadelphia Eagles.
• Is the Seattle Seahawks considered a bird team?
  Yes, the Seattle Seahawks are named after the osprey, sometimes called the 'sea hawk,' making them another avian-themed team.
• Why did Baltimore choose the Ravens?
  The name honors Edgar Allan Poe, who lived in Baltimore and wrote the famous poem "The Raven."
• Do peregrine falcons live in Atlanta?
  Yes, peregrine falcons have nested on tall buildings in Atlanta, especially during migration seasons.
• Are there any NFL teams named after non-raptor birds?
  No, all bird-named NFL teams represent raptors—birds of prey known for strength and sharp vision.