Bird Names - Comprehensive List

Kass is a masculine name that likely originated as a short form of names like Kassian, Cassius, or even Kaspar. The name has Greek roots through Cassius, which may relate to "kassis" meaning "hollow." As a standalone name, Kass is quite uncommon for males, though it appears occasionally as a nickname or abbreviated form. The name's brevity gives it a sharp, modern quality with its single syllable and strong consonant ending. For female bearers, Kass can also function as a variant of Cass (short for Cassandra). The masculine use offers a distinctive alternative to more common short names like Cass or Kade, appealing to parents seeking something concise yet uncommon.

This name stems from the Latin term Avis, meaning bird. Related names include Avice, Aveza and Aveline.

Yunus is the Arabic form of Jonah, also used in Turkish. In Islam, Yunus is a prophet.

One of the rare cases where spelling a name with a y makes it less rather than more feminine. Birdie might be the freshest choice in this aviary.

Arnett is a masculine name of Germanic origin that functions as a diminutive of Arnold, meaning 'eagle power' or 'strong as an eagle.' The name combines 'arn' (eagle) with a diminutive suffix. As a surname turned first name, Arnett has maintained a steady but modest presence in American naming culture throughout the 20th century. It peaked in popularity during the 1940s but has remained relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. Arnett carries connotations of strength, independence, and nobility—characteristics associated with eagles in many cultures. The name offers the gravitas of traditional Germanic naming patterns while remaining accessible and straightforward for contemporary use.

Avis is a bird name that's been in hibernation for awhile, possibly due to the car rental association, but it could make a return on the wings of Ava. Baldwin brother Daniel chose it for his daughter.

Rissa is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may function as a diminutive of Clarissa or Marissa, both derived from Latin roots meaning "bright" or "clear." Alternatively, it could stand independently as a shortened form of various longer names ending with the "rissa" sound. In some cultures, Rissa appears as a nature-inspired name relating to laughter or smiles. The name has remained relatively uncommon but recognized across English-speaking countries. Its brevity gives it a modern, informal quality while retaining feminine charm. Rissa's simplicity makes it easy to pronounce across languages, adding to its appeal for multicultural families. The name conveys a sense of brightness and cheerfulness through both its potential meanings and its light, melodic sound.

Netta ranked in the US Top 1000 in the 1880s, when it was often used as a short form of names such as Jeanette, Annette, and Antoinette. In Jewish families, Netta was typically seen as a variation of the Hebrew name Neta.

This elegant surname has great potential to turn into an unusual first name, especially with its literary associations to both Stephen and Hart Crane.

Maroochy Barambah, an Australian singer, brought this name into prominence in Australia.

Cormorant is definitely one of the most unusual of the newly fashionable animal names, and one of the rare bird names for boys.

Calista Flockhart opened the door to a whole flock of graceful and unusual Greek names like this, including Calantha, Calla, Carissa, and Cassia. Calandra itself is the name of a species of lark, and has the versatile nickname options of Callie, Candy, Andra, Andie and Birdie.

This 1950s Welsh bird name sounds less dated than our fifties Robin.

Unusual but accessible multi-cultural choice.

Schoolchildren will recognize this name via Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.

In Norway, Svale is also used as a short form of the rare name Svalaug/Svanlaug, meaning "swan oath". Svale is also a more modern form of Svali, meaning "cool, fresh".

Arnie is a nerdy-tipping-into-cute nickname that may rise again, if not for this generation of babies then for their babies. Look for it in the nurseries of 2050.

Possible musical tribute name to the waiflike, husky-voiced midcentury French singer who was given this last name because of her birdlike quality.

Derived from suvarna, a Sanskrit word meaning "good color".