The Secret Language of Birds is a real treat. This beautiful book explores the secret language of birds throughout the world through fascinating stories, quotes, secrets and myths. From dark tales of violence and transformation, to wonderful facts – did you know that Baby Zebra Finches learn their songs in their sleep? – this book will inspire you to see every bird in a new light:
How do you know but every bird that cuts the airy way Is an immense world of delight, closed by your senses five?
William Blake, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell
The book contains a wealth of interesting information. At NHBS, for example, our mascot is the Hoopoe:
Storm Detection
Many birds are believed by human beings to have the ability to predict the weather. This is not mere folklore but has its basis in scientific fact. It is a relatively recent discovery that the hoopoe, for example, is able to detect piezo-electrical charges in the atmosphere, which can presage lightning storms, and the bird’s behaviour alters as a result of them. So the hoopoe really can be used as a relaible indicator of harsh weather to come.
There is also a rather dark myth about our hoopoe – but for that you’ll have to read the book!