Did you know that some bird names are not only offensive but also inaccurate? A recent study has shed light on the need to change these common names, particularly for birds in regions with a history of colonization, such as South Africa and North America.
Experts argue that the stability of common names is often used as a reason to resist change. However, they point out that we have successfully adapted to name changes in the past. Take, for example, the case of Clangula hyemalis, which was renamed the long-tailed duck 20 years ago. If we can handle that, surely we can handle renaming others.
Furthermore, scientific names provide the stability necessary for proper identification. So, changing common names shouldn’t pose a significant problem.
Responding to these concerns, the American Ornithological Society (AOS) acknowledges that bird names serve as a gateway to a wealth of information accumulated over decades of research. This information is crucial for better understanding, enjoyment, and conservation efforts among ornithologists and birding communities.
At the same time, the AOS recognizes that certain English bird names can be harmful and exclude certain individuals from participating in ornithology and enjoying birds. Therefore, they are committed to changing these harmful and exclusionary names to promote inclusivity.
However, the issue of common bird names is more nuanced than it may seem. It’s not just about changing names associated with reprehensible individuals. There are also names that are inaccurate, offensive, or simply inappropriate.
For instance, some birds are named after a particular group of people or have names that have no connection to their natural habitat. Take the palm warbler, for example. Despite its name, this bird doesn’t inhabit areas with palm trees at all.
Inaccurate names are not uncommon. In Australia, the bird known as Gymnorhina tibicen is called the Australian magpie, even though it is neither a magpie nor a member of the corvid family.
This leads to a confusing situation where different groups of birds that share similarities in appearance end up with the same name. Finches, for instance, actually consist of various unrelated bird groups. The same goes for tits and babblers, which are distinct groups, but then there are also tit-babblers, a third group that further complicates matters.
It’s time to recognize the problems with offensive and inaccurate bird names and make the necessary changes. By doing so, we can ensure that birding and ornithology are inclusive and accessible to all. Let’s embrace the scientific names for stability and work towards a more respectful and accurate bird-naming tradition.