What Group of Birds Is Called a Parliament?

Yes, a group of owls is known as a "parliament." This collective noun stands out among animal group names for its elegance and unique association.

While most birds are grouped in a flock (or a gaggle, in the case of geese), owls earn a term rooted in myth, symbolism, and history.

The term likely stems from the long-standing association of owls with wisdom. Ancient cultures, from the Greeks to the Romans, revered owls as symbols of knowledge. The goddess Athena, for example, was often accompanied by an owl.

While it’s perfectly acceptable to use the word "flock" for many bird species, collective nouns like "parliament" or "murder" add richness and charm to language.

These words help us see animals not just as species, but as parts of larger stories—whether it's a parliament of owls perched in the woods or a murder of crows circling ominously overhead.

Owls are generally solitary, but when young owls are learning to hunt, or when food is plentiful, small groups may form. Their haunting calls, silent flight, and deep-set eyes have helped fuel their mythical reputation.

Culturally, owls are tied to both wisdom and bad luck. In some folklore, a sighting of an owl is associated with death or misfortune, while in others, it’s a sign of deep insight or a watchful protector.

The animal kingdom is full of fascinating and sometimes funny group names:

These names often come from medieval English hunting traditions, where colorful language was used to describe groups of animals, sometimes based on appearance, sound, or behavior.

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