In the Wings of Change: Why Bird Names Should Reflect What They Are

In the world of birdwatching, every bird tells a story. Yet, the names we assign to our feathered friends often carry tales of a less enchanting nature. Eponymous and honorific common bird names, bestowed upon birds by well-meaning but sometimes misguided naturalists, have lingered in our ornithological lexicon. We here at the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin are incredibly excited about the recent announcement from the American Ornithological Society to change the English common names of bird species named after people. It's time to rethink this tradition and embrace a more inclusive approach—where bird names accurately reflect their appearance and ecology.

Wilson’s Warbler. Photo by Dexter Patterson

 The Power of Precision

Birdwatching is an art that hinges on precision and observation. What better way to honor the essence of this pursuit than by giving our birds names that vividly capture their appearance? The traditional practice of eponymous naming, where birds are tagged with monikers honoring individuals, often white men with questionable pasts, falls short of this precision. And how do we determine who is good enough to have a bird named after them?  

The Legacy of Colonialism

Many eponymous names were conceived during the era of colonialism when European countries wielded power over territories and peoples worldwide. These names, often reflective of the biases of their creators, carry the weight of a colonial legacy—one that we must acknowledge and actively work to transcend if we wish to honor and learn from history.

Moving Beyond the Shadows

In an era where social justice is at the forefront of our collective consciousness, it's crucial to reassess the impact of our actions, even in seemingly trivial matters like bird naming. By opting for names that accurately describe a bird's features, we can step out of the shadows of colonial history and cultivate a more inclusive and respectful birding community.

Clark’s Nutcracker. Photo by Dexter Patterson

 A Call for Change: Bird Names For Birds

Enter the Bird Names For Birds initiative—a call for change in how we name and perceive our avian companions. This movement advocates for bird names that mirror their physical attributes, steering away from eponyms and honorifics that may perpetuate colonial biases. The work this group has been doing is remarkable, and we want to give them a HUGE shoutout! 

Why It Matters

Naming is a powerful act. It shapes our perception of the world and influences our interactions with it. By adopting names that align with the visual characteristics of birds, we not only celebrate the diversity of these creatures but also contribute to a more equitable and just birdwatching community. As a BIPOC birder, this hits home for me and is a core tenet of our mission as a club. 

Coopers Hawk. Photo by Dexter Patterson.

In Conclusion

In the evolving landscape of birdwatching, let's shed the weight of eponymous legacies and embrace a more enlightened approach. The wings of change are upon us, urging us to be mindful stewards of our feathered friends and advocates for a birdwatching community that reflects the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Let's show that birding is for everyone, not an elite few. 

Best regards,

Dexter Patterson 

Co-founder of BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin