Solemn but soaring name with patriotic symbolism.

There is a whole new species of bird names open to the baby namer, from the light and feminine Lark to the sleek and powerful Falcon.

Feather, though it was used for a character in a Walter Mosley novel, seems too light and fluttery for a real-life girl.

It feels like Finch should be a modern bird name that's as popular as Wren or Lark, but that's not the case - so it's one to consider if you're looking for a nature name that's familiar but rare.

A bird name that could be thought of as an animated spin on Garrett.

The meaning is kind of silly, but the name might make a distinctive update of Janet.

Suggests the salty, windswept air of the seashore.

Animal names are on the rise, especially more of the aggressive Hawk-Fox-Wolf variety than cute little Bunnys or Robins, and Hawk is a prime example.

Heron may feel like a very usable nature name -- the heron is a long-legged wading bird -- but it was also the name of a 1st century Greek inventor and of an Egyptian saint. Highly unusual yet easy to understand and meaningful on several levels, Heron is a fantastic choice.

Lark is getting some new and well-deserved attention as a post-Robin and Raven bird name. Although it was first recorded as a name in the 1830's, it has never appeared on the Social Security list.

Lory is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It can be a diminutive of Dolores (from Spanish, meaning 'sorrows'), Lorraine (a French place name), or Laura (from Latin, meaning 'laurel'). The name may also relate to the colorful lorikeet bird, giving it a bright, natural association. Lory has a light, playful quality with its simple two syllables and friendly sound. Though more common as a nickname, Lory can stand independently as a full given name. It enjoyed modest popularity in the mid-20th century but remains relatively uncommon today. The name has an approachable, unpretentious character that balances femininity with simplicity. Lory offers a vintage charm while still feeling contemporary enough for modern use.