The 12 Birds of Christmas
In the Twelve Days of Christmas song, many birds are mentioned. Learn more about the turtle doves, partridges and other birds! The song was actually an English Drinking Song, and people at holiday parties had great fun seeing who could make it all the way through the song without messing something up! Some Christians later turned it into a way to retain their religion amidst troubled times, but its origin was in fun and merriment.
Partridge in a Pear Tree
The partridge is from the pheasant family. Many other similar-looking birds (bobwhites etc) are often mistakenly called partridges. This has been a traditional game bird in the US and England for centuries, and it is a plump, hen-like shape.
Two Turtle Doves
Turtle Doves are very common in southern England, especially where there is a lot of farmland. They are grey with darkly patterned wings, and a dark spot on the back of their necks.
Three French Hens
French hens were a breed of chicken that was very tasty and sought-after. Notice a theme here so far? They're singing about food! These birds would be a delicious feast for any English family of the fifteenth or sixteenth century.
Four Colle Birds
It's only our mis-translation over the years that turned these into "calling birds". These were originally "colle birds" - i.e. BLACKBIRDS. Remember the four-and-twenty-blackbirds baked in a pie? Yup, these were considered a great pie bird and were enjoyed over the holidays.
Six Geese a Laying
A holiday goose is a tradition in many households even now in the 21st century. Farmyard geese and wild geese have both been very popular for centuries.
Seven Swans a Swimming
Swans aren't often served today, but you can easily find medieval and renaissance recipes for these white birds. Nowadays it's more likely you'll admire their graceful beauty, perhaps in a carved ice sculpture or other decorative touch.
After the swans, the song gets into dancing and fun, and doesn't mention any more birds. If you're entertaining this holiday season, be sure to sing the song, remember the feast it represented to the English, and admire the birds that are so well remembered!
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