The natural world is full of wonders, not least among them the unique ways we describe groups of animals. These collective nouns, often colorful and imaginative, paint vivid pictures and hint at historical observations or folklore. They reflect a long-standing human fascination with the behaviors and characteristics of the creatures sharing our planet.
The Specific Answer
When observing a gathering of crows, the recognized collective noun is “a murder of crows.” This term is one of the most well-known collective names for birds. While “flock” is a general term for many bird groups, “murder” is specifically associated with crows. Other less common, but still recognized, terms for groups of crows include a “horde,” a “mob,” or even a “parliament” of crows.
Unpacking the “Murder”
The designation “murder” for a group of crows stems from historical folklore, superstition, and observations of crow behavior, dating back to at least the 15th century. Crows, with their dark plumage and scavenging habits, were associated with death and misfortune in various cultures. They were often seen near battlefields, gallows, or cemeteries, feeding on carrion, which fostered a connection to demise.
One prominent folktale suggests that crows would gather to hold a “court” or “parliament” to judge a fellow crow, and if found guilty, the group would “murder” the accused. While this specific behavior is largely anecdotal, crows are intelligent birds known for complex social structures and can sometimes act aggressively towards sick or injured members. Their loud “cawing” and tendency to gather in large numbers, sometimes appearing to circle, contributed to their ominous reputation and the coining of this evocative term.
Beyond Crows: The World of Collective Nouns
The “murder of crows” is part of a larger tradition of collective nouns for animals, many of which originated in medieval times, particularly from “The Book of Saint Albans” published in 1486. These terms were often whimsical, poetic, or based on perceived characteristics or behaviors of the animals.
For instance, a group of owls is called a “parliament,” reflecting their association with wisdom. Other notable examples include a “business of ferrets,” alluding to their busy and inquisitive nature, or a “crash of rhinoceroses,” referencing their poor eyesight and powerful charge. You might also encounter a “shrewdness of apes” or a “cackle of hyenas,” the latter directly inspired by their distinct vocalizations. These varied and imaginative terms continue to enrich the English language, offering a glimpse into historical perspectives on the animal kingdom.