Knowing and Naming: The Roots of Ethno-Ornithology

Explore the fascinating world of bird naming and its cultural significance in this lecture by Professor Andrew Gosler. Delve into the recent decision by the American Ornithological Society to rename eponymous English bird names and examine the politics behind naming practices. Analyze over 7,000 English folk names for British birds, revealing the deep knowledge and sophisticated naming conventions of 19th-century country folk. Compare this historical understanding to modern-day challenges in bird identification. Investigate how meaningful bird names can help reconnect people with nature. Learn about ethno-ornithology and its importance in understanding the reciprocal relationships between humans and birds, essential for effective nature conservation. Gain insights from Professor Gosler's extensive research on bird ecology and human-bird interactions at the University of Oxford.