Many of the bird species we are familiar with today were named in the 1700’s and 1800’s by the early naturalists. Ornithologists and explorers have discovered countless species, often bestowing upon them names that honor fellow scientists, patrons, royals or notable figures of their time. So if you’ve ever wondered about the reasoning behind a name, read on to discover 20 birds named after people, from Cooper’s Hawk to Anna’s Hummingbird.
1. Cooper’s hawk
Scientific Name: Accipiter cooperii
The Cooper’s hawk is a medium-sized hawk native to North America, recognized for its adept songbird hunting skills in both open and wooded areas. In 1828 Charles Bonaparte named this hawk in honor of his friend and fellow ornithologist William Cooper. Cooper was a founding member of the New York Academy of Sciences.
This bird showcases a slate-gray back with a reddish-barred chest and a long, banded tail, adapting well to various environments, from dense forests to suburban neighborhoods. Cooper’s Hawks are known for their remarkable agility, chasing birds and small mammals through trees with swift, precise movements. They does mean that you may see them in your backyard stalking your bird feeders for doves!
2. Henslow’s sparrow
Scientific Name: Centronyx henslowii
Henslow’s sparrow is a small, elusive bird known for its preference for tall grass habitats. While the bird was first recorded by Audubon, he named it after English botanist, geologist and priest, John Stevens Henslow. Henslow is often remembered as one of Charl