The Oxford dictionary of British bird names

The Oxford Dictionary of British Bird Names is an A to Z guide to over 1,500 standard and local British Bird names, relating to some 260 species. Entries provide the etymology and history of common bird names, with full documentation of dates and sources. An extensive introduction covers the linguistic evolution and standardization of these names and the influences involved.

This new edition features familiar names such as crow, brown owl, and wren, as well as newly researched names like snalter, cherry chopper, and withy hanger and obsolete terms such as tail mouse. The variety of names reflects regional variation within Britain and highlights the fascinating practice and patterns of bird naming.