What Group of Animals Is Called a Charm?

These birds want to know just as badly as you do. JMx Images / Shutterstock

The English language is full of imaginative ways to describe groups of animals. You’ve probably heard of a murder of crows or a parliament of owls. But what group of animals is called a charm?

This particular collective noun is one of the most poetic in the animal kingdom—and it perfectly suits its subject.

A Charm of Finches

The term "charm" is most commonly used to describe a group of finches. These small, lively birds often move together in flocks, chirping and fluttering through gardens, woodlands and fields.

Their colorful feathers and cheerful sounds give them an air of magic, and the collective term “charm” actually comes from the Old English c’irm, referring to their twittering song.

"Charm" captures both the appearance and behavior of finches. They’re quick, bright and social, often seen feeding or perching in groups. It’s a fitting word for a bird that brings joy just by showing up.

Are There Other Birds in a Charm?

Sometimes, the term has been extended to include other small songbirds like goldfinches.

However, most sources agree that finches are the primary animals associated with this collective noun. The specificity helps distinguish a charm from more general terms like flock or group.

Why Use Collective Nouns at All?

Collective nouns aren’t just decorative; they help describe how animals behave when they gather. For example:

A leap of leopards suggests sudden movement.
A gang of elk evokes coordinated motion.
A bask of crocodiles highlights stillness in the sun.
A scurry of squirrels fits their twitchy energy.

In contrast, a charm describes something more visual and emotional. It’s not about speed or function, but the feeling these animals inspire when they gather.

Here are some other imaginative collective nouns that make animal behavior even more vivid:

A covey of partridges
A mischief of magpies
A pack of wolves
An unkindness of ravens
A business of ferrets
A trip of goats
A cast of falcons
A shoal of herring
A trip of dotterel
A cete of badgers

These terms often come from old hunting guides, folklore or regional dialects. While they’re not used in scientific classification, they remain a beloved part of English animal lore.

So next time you spot a lively group of finches fluttering through your backyard, you’ll know exactly what to call them: a charm.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.