I was given a copy “A Conspiracy of Ravens – A compendium of collective nouns for birds”. Having enjoyed looking through the long list of examples, many of which are evocative and witty attempts to capture the true essence of the birds they describe, I thought I might share some.
However rather than the woodcuts of Thomas Bewick used in the book, I thought I would use my photos and that this would help me limit the number I could do, as I only a limited selection of pictures with more than one of a species in them. (so no Crown of Kingfishers)
Having done a little bit of research I did add to the list as I discovered that for certain birds there are more than one term as you will see
Enjoy…
Starting with a couple of well known ones
A parliament of Rooks
A commotion of Coots
And now ones I didn't know
A quarrel of Sparrows
A lamentation of Swans
A nye of Pheasants
A paddling of Ducks (on water)
A plump of Ducks (flying)
A deceit of Lapwings
A posse of Herons
A swim of Cormorants
A parcel of Oystercatchers
A screech of Gulls
A brood of Gosling
How many do you know?
Turns out I have more shots of multiples of birds than I thought but will save the rest for another time
and thanks to Nadine for the book
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