Towards redressing inaccurate, offensive and inappropriate common bird names

Robert J Driver,Alexander L Bond

doi:10.1111/ibi.12984

Abstract

English common names are widely used in ornithological research, birding, media and by the general public and, unlike other taxa, often receive considerably greater use than scientific names. Across the world, many of these names were coined from 18th and 19th century European perspectives and are symbolic of a time when this was the only worldview considered in science. Here, we highlight formal efforts by ornithological societies around the world to change common names of birds to better reflect the diverse perspectives of scientists in the 21st century. We focus on particular case studies from regions with a history of colonialism, including South Africa and North America, as well as the successful implementation of Indigenous bird names in New Zealand. In addition to detailing independent and repeated efforts by different ornithological communities to address culturally inappropriate English common names, we discuss dissention and debate in North America regarding these changes. The continued use of problematic common names must change if we wish to create a more diverse and inclusive discipline.

Highlights

English common names are widely used in ornithological research, birding, media and by the general public and, unlike other taxa, often receive considerably greater use than scientific names
We focus on particular case studies from regions with a history of colonialism, including South Africa and North America, as well as the successful implementation of Indigenous bird names in New Zealand
Promoting diversity and inclusion gives voices to different perspectives that are required for diverse solutions to research questions

Summary

Title Authors

We highlight formal efforts by ornithological societies around the world to change common names of birds to better reflect the diverse perspectives of scientists in the 21st century. Proposals for South American common name changes are handled by the SACC and proposals and decisions are available on the ‘Classification of the Bird Species of South America’ website (Remsen et al 2018) This ability of ornithological societies to have decision-making authority over the English names of birds provides a unique opportunity to change common names for the better. Diverse perspectives from across cultures and groups bring different perspectives and approaches to scientific inquiry, resulting in new and different questions, methods and interpretations that would otherwise be missed (Freeman & Huang 2014, AlShebli et al 2018) This is true of common names and efforts to change them, and amplifying perspectives across cultures would strengthen this discussion. Many Indigenous names are used for species endemic to Aotearoa (New Zealand), including charismatic and endangered species such as the Kakapo (Strigops habroptilus)

PREVIOUS EFFORTS TO CHANGE PROBLEMATIC BIRD NAMES

South Africa

Inca Dove Columbina inca

CONCLUSIONS