The English language contains many unique and evocative collective nouns for groups of animals, terms that often capture a perceived characteristic of the species. Consider the startling “murder” of crows or the regal “pride” of lions, both of which offer a glimpse into the human perception of these creatures. Just as these animals possess their own distinctive designations, the owl, a bird long associated with the mysteries of the night, is also assigned a peculiar and formal collective noun. This designation stands out for its unexpected formality, reflecting an ancient connection between the bird and human intellectual pursuits.
The Name For a Group of Owls
The most widely recognized collective noun for a group of owls is a “parliament.” This term, which evokes an image of formal assembly and deliberation, is not a scientific classification but a linguistic tradition known as a term of venery. Collective nouns often date back to the medieval period. While “parliament” is the most common designation, a group of owls may also be referred to by less frequent terms like a “stare,” a “wisdom,” or a “congress.” These alternative names similarly nod to the bird’s reputation for serious contemplation and sharp eyesight.
The Origin of the Term “Parliament”
The selection of “parliament” stems directly from the long-standing cultural association of the owl with wisdom and knowledge. In ancient Greek mythology, the owl was a powerful symbol for Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. The bird’s large, forward-facing eyes and generally quiet, watchful demeanor reinforced this perception of deep insight and thoughtful observation. The collective noun is a metaphorical link between the perceived solemnity of the owl and the formality of a governing body.
Owl Social Behavior and Grouping
Despite the formal title of “parliament,” most species of owls are largely solitary creatures, preferring to hunt and roost alone. Their nocturnal and territorial nature means that large, cohesive social groups are rare in the wild. Groupings, when they do occur, are usually temporary and functional rather than social. For instance, a small group may form during the non-breeding season, particularly for communal roosting to share body warmth and provide safety from predators.
These small gatherings typically consist of a mated pair, a family unit with dependent owlets, or sometimes a handful of individuals of the same species. Species like Short-eared Owls and Burrowing Owls are more likely to exhibit this communal behavior, sometimes forming loose colonies. The term “parliament” is therefore a celebrated linguistic oddity, contrasting sharply with the typical solitary existence of these silent, sharp-taloned hunters.