An unexpected nature option with a bright, on-trend sound and a totally cool bird meaning, Ninox is the name of a genus of owls, including hawk-owls and boobooks. Said as NYE-noks, it could get you to nickname Nox (like Knox) or quirky Nye.

A striking Nordic name with ancient roots, Svala (and its less common variant form Svale) derive from the Old Norse name for the swallow. This could be a great choice for nature lovers and fans of Edith Piaf (piaf being a term for a swallow).

Ptarmigan is the common English name for the genus Lagopus, in the grouse family of birds. The name is derived from the Scottish word for the bird, tàrmachan (meaning unknown), with the initial P- added by erroneous association with the Greek pteron ("wing").

Spiky and edgy, Azor is a Biblical name that appears in the New Testament as an ancestor of Jesus. It possibly comes from the same Hebrew element as the popular Azariah, giving it the meaning "helper", and making it a unique alternative to the likes of Ezra, Asa, Azariah, and Azari.

Dyveke is related to the Frisian word düveke, which means "dove", as well as to the name Dietlinde.

Aquilla appears in the New Testament. The name carries powerful symbolism through its association with eagles, conveying qualities of strength, vision, and nobility. Despite its classical origins, Aquilla remains quite rare as a given name, offering distinction while still having historical precedent. The name has a commanding presence with its unusual letter combination and strong sound. For parents seeking a name with both gravitas and uncommon status, Aquilla provides a meaningful option with rich symbolic connections to one of the most majestic birds in cultural traditions.

Candice Swanpoel and Hermann Nicoli gave this uncommon Portuguese name to their son in 2016. It's the Portuguese word for the red-fan parrot, putting it in the fashionable bird name category.

Unisex name in Israel, ideal for a Hanukkah baby.

The raven was a holy bird in Norse mythology, giving this choice some resonance beyond other Bart variations.

According to Cherokee legend, hummingbirds were healers, helping those in medical crises, making this a meaningful name. Walela is borne by a musical, made up of sisters Rita Coolidge and Priscilla Coolidge, and Priscilla's daughter Laura Satterfield.

Kew is an offbeat name of a saint from Cornwall with boyish appeal.

A Navajo nature name with a cool, fresh sound.

Iolani feels quintessentially Hawaiian, a stylish origin for baby names these days thanks to Malia, the Hawaiian name of the Obamas' older daughter. The initial I is pronounced with a long e sound, as in Waikiki, and the name Iolani has four syllables.

So many names sound better with a French accent, and Petronille is one of them: it feels unusual in an elegant way. Usually spelled as Pétronille, it is derived from the Latin Petronius, possibly meaning "yokel", which is now considered a slur for country dwellers, but it may previously have referred to the green woodpecker instead, which is a better meaning. Alternatively, it can be linked to Peter, as Saint Petronilla was said to be Saint Peter's daughter.

Lihini is a word name from Sri Lanka. When used as a name, it is often interpreted as meaning "free as a bird"

The name of a small songbird, similar to a Lark – but far less commonly used as a name. Could give you the adorable nickname Pip.

Suggests the salty, windswept air of the seashore.

The given name of Conocotocko II, or Standing Turkey, a Cherokee chief in the 18th century. He advised the tribe to go to war against the then-colonies of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.

Bird name Finch has been quietly used in the US since the early 2010s, perhaps thanks to the rise of Wren and Birdie, and because of its connection to Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird. Longer form Finchley has yet to appear in the stats, however, it may interest those who like Wrenley and Finley, but also want something ultra-rare.