What Do the Birds Say?
By Steven, Dróttnari RFU
In many pagan cultures there was a lesser known type of divination or way to receive messages from the Gods. This was known as bird augury or ornithomancy. From Hellenic to Germanic, and even Gaulish societies, there was a long and storied tradition of interpreting the behavior and calls of birds to know the will and wants of the divine.
The species of bird, their behavior when observed, and the calls they made could all hold meanings. As an example; ravens flying overhead could symbolize a positive sign of favour for one who stands on a battlefield, and songbirds building nests was positive for one sitting in their home. Many have heard the tales of the storks bringing babies and they too carried messages to our folk, often of fertility and childbirth. Another is the cuckoo bird, who's first hearing in spring, it is said, could tell you how many years you have to live, or how long a maiden will remain unmarried, but should he sound off more than 10 times, he was said to be bewitched and his calls to be ignored. The woodpecker, especially of the green variety, was known to the Nordic folk to be a forteller of rain, and to hear his call would be a blessing to the farmer in need of water for his crops. The mighty hawk may tell of coming action and opportunity, the favor of Freyja who chooses the battle slain, while the magpie was known as a trickster and deceiver and could warn the folk of such a man in their midst.
The number of birds also held meaning to the ancestors. One may be a personal message, while two could be allies or enemies, and a flock brought news for the whole community. Their behavior (especially should it be out of the ordinary) was important to take note of, for this made the indications much stronger. One would do well to take note of a raven which lands close to them and calls, for they bring a message from Lord Woden and often not one of good tidings, but a warning of impending danger.
To learn to interpret these signs one must first be open to the messages, learn the associations of each bird, learn of their behaviors, and seek often to observe and understand the Gods' messengers as best as they can. Those things which the ancestors felt important are things we too should find important, and we should never lose track of them. When next you see the birds, perhaps you can keep an eye out for what news they bring and ask, "What do the birds say?"
Hail the Gods!
Hail the folk!
Hail RFU!