Murmuration

/ˌmɜːrməˈreɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The phenomenon of starlings flying in a dense, fluid, swirling formation that moves as one organism; also, a flock of starlings.

Etymology

From Latin 'murmuratio' (murmuring), from 'murmurare' (to murmur). Named for the soft rushing sound thousands of wings make. The collective noun for starlings IS their sound.

Kelly Says

Thousands of starlings dancing through the sky in a living, breathing, swirling cloud — that's a murmuration! Named after the SOUND of all those wings. Nature's greatest ballet has the most poetic name! 🐦‍⬛🌀

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