A collective noun is a specialized term used to describe a group of animals of the same species, often reflecting a characteristic of the creatures. For birds, these terms are diverse and poetic, ranging from the familiar “flock” to vivid alternatives. This tradition of assigning unique names for avian gatherings has created a collection of interesting trivia.
The Specific Answer: Birds Called a Congress
The collective noun “congress” is most commonly associated with a group of eagles or ravens. A congress of eagles refers to a gathering of these raptors, which are symbolic of power and governance. The term suggests a formal assembly, reflecting the regal nature assigned to the eagle’s commanding presence.
A congress of ravens is a recognized term, though ravens are more famously associated with an “unkindness” or “conspiracy.” Ravens, like crows, are highly intelligent members of the corvid family. Owls are also occasionally referred to by this term, though a “parliament” remains the most popular collective noun for them. The application of “congress” to these species highlights a human tendency to project an air of orderly deliberation onto birds of prey and large, clever birds.
The Origin of Bird Collective Nouns
The tradition of using imaginative collective nouns for groups of animals has a long history rooted in medieval Europe. Many unique terms trace back to the 15th century, specifically to The Book of St. Albans, printed in 1486. This book, which contained treatises on hawking, hunting, and heraldry, included a glossary of specialized names for groups of animals, known as “terms of venery.”
The original purpose of these terms was not scientific but served as linguistic etiquette for the aristocratic classes, demonstrating knowledge of hunting and social graces. Many words were deliberately descriptive, humorous, or metaphorical. For example, a “murder” of crows stems from folklore associating the dark birds with death or mischief, while an “exaltation” of larks captures the joyful image of the birds soaring high into the sky.
These whimsical terms survived in literature and popular culture despite having little practical use in modern ornithology. Biologists today prefer simpler, descriptive terms like “flock,” “colony,” or “brood.” The appeal of these names lies in their ability to evoke a vivid image or characteristic of the bird species they describe.
Other Notable and Unusual Collective Nouns
The tradition of colorful naming conventions produced many other memorable terms. The most widely recognized example is a murder of crows, a term inspired by the birds’ dark plumage and association with ominous tales. This name reflects the long-standing perception of corvids in human culture.
A common and poetic term is a parliament of owls, which refers to the bird’s historical association with wisdom and formal gatherings. Vultures, whose habits are often viewed with distaste, have a collective noun that changes depending on their activity:
- A group circling in the air is a kettle.
- A group resting on the ground is a committee.
- A group feeding is a wake.
The term “wake” offers a somber nod to their presence at a carcass.
Smaller birds also have distinct names, such as a charm of finches or a host of sparrows. The “charm” for finches suggests the pleasing sound of their songs and colorful appearance.