The American Ornithological Society (AOS) has made headlines with its decision to revise English names of bird species named after people and those considered offensive or exclusionary. As a wildlife photographer who passionately captures the beauty of these feathered creatures, I find myself amidst an intriguing debate that has implications for both the scientific and birding communities.
The Quest for Inclusivity
One of the key arguments in favor of changing bird names is the pursuit of inclusivity. The AOS’s endeavor to remove names associated with the past that could be exclusionary is motivated by the desire to make the birding community more welcoming. This is a perspective that resonates with the broader concept of inclusivity and respect for all individuals who share a love for these winged wonders.
Shifting the Focus to Birds Themselves
As a wildlife photographer, my primary focus has always been on the birds’ remarkable characteristics, behaviors, and the unique stories they tell through the lens. Renaming birds can potentially redirect the collective attention back to what matters most – the birds themselves. This refocusing aligns with my mission of capturing the essence of these creatures in their natural habitats.
The Ongoing Debate
It’s essential to acknowledge that the decision to change bird names isn’t without its share of controversy. Within the birding community, there are lively debates about which names should be changed and the underlying reasons. This ongoing discourse reflects the complexity of the issue and the diversity of opinions within the community.
Pros and Cons: A Photographer’s Perspective
Pros and cons are integral to any significant decision, and changing bird names is no exception. From the vantage point of a wildlife photographer, here are some considerations:
Pros:
Inclusivity: Embracing more inclusive names can potentially create a more welcoming birding community.
Focus on Birds: By shifting the emphasis to the birds themselves, we may gain a deeper appreciation of their natural beauty and significance.
Accuracy: Addressing inaccurate, offensive, and inappropriate common bird names can foster a more respectful and informative environment for both experts and enthusiasts.
Cons:
Loss of Familiarity: For many birders, parting with familiar names can be an emotional journey. Nostalgia and attachment to well-known names can be challenging to navigate.
Disagreement: The diverse opinions within the birding and scientific communities may lead to varying perspectives on what constitutes an appropriate name. This can potentially lead to inconsistency.
Cost: The practical implications of changing bird names, such as updating field guides and scientific materials, can be a considerable undertaking.
As a wildlife photographer, I view this ongoing discussion with interest and an open mind. Ultimately, the changes in bird names are part of a broader effort to make the avian world more inclusive and scientifically accurate. Whether one sees these changes as a positive step or a challenging transition, it’s undeniable that the debate itself reflects the passion and dedication shared by bird enthusiasts around the world.
In the end, the birds themselves remain a constant source of inspiration, beauty, and wonder, regardless of the names we assign to them.
Steve, I enjoyed reading this blogpost. It is clear and concise. And it is my first knowledge of this subject of the name changes. Thank you for writing and posting it.
Awesome! Thank you!