How Many Football Teams Named After Birds? The List Revealed

How many football teams are named after birds? In professional American football, there are currently five NFL teams with bird-related names: the Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, Philadelphia Eagles, and Seattle Seahawks. This count expands significantly when we consider college football and other leagues, revealing a popular avian theme among sports franchises.

Birds, with their inherent symbolism of power, freedom, and keen vision, have long captured the human imagination. It’s no surprise, then, that these magnificent creatures have soared into the world of sports, becoming beloved mascots and fierce team identities. From the soaring eagle to the swift falcon, the avian kingdom offers a rich tapestry of inspiration for football teams across all levels. This exploration delves into the fascinating world of bird mascot football teams, uncovering the football teams with bird names and their unique stories.

The NFL’s Avian Elite: A Closer Look at NFL Teams Named After Birds

The National Football League (NFL) boasts a notable presence of bird-themed teams. These five franchises have etched their avian identities into the fabric of professional football:

Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens, named after Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic poem “The Raven,” embody a sense of mystery and resilience. Poe, who spent his final years in Baltimore, penned the melancholic and powerful narrative that inspired the team’s name. The raven, a creature often associated with darkness and omens, has been transformed into a symbol of Baltimore’s grit and determination. Their distinctive purple and black colors further enhance this brooding, yet powerful, image. The choice of the raven speaks to a literary heritage, giving the team a unique cultural connection.

Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons, representing the state of Georgia, chose their name to symbolize speed, strength, and the ability to strike with precision. The falcon is a bird of prey known for its incredible eyesight and swift, decisive dives. This aggressive imagery perfectly aligns with the competitive spirit of professional football. The team’s red and black colors evoke a sense of intensity and passion on the field. Their mascot, “Freddie Falcon,” is a cheerful and energetic character that embodies the team’s vibrant spirit.

Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals derive their name from the vibrant red plumage of the cardinal, a bird commonly found in the southwestern United States. This choice highlights the natural beauty and distinctive fauna of Arizona. The cardinal’s bright color symbolizes energy and boldness, qualities that resonate deeply with a football team. The team’s red, white, and black color scheme reflects the desert landscape and the fiery spirit of the team. The cardinal’s song is also often associated with cheerfulness, bringing a positive aura to the franchise.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles are perhaps one of the most iconic NFL teams named after birds. The bald eagle, a powerful symbol of the United States, represents freedom, strength, and vigilance. This choice aligns perfectly with the city’s historical significance as a cradle of American independence. The Eagles’ kelly green and silver colors are instantly recognizable and evoke a sense of pride and tradition. Their consistent presence in the playoffs and their Super Bowl victory cement their status as a formidable force in the league. The eagle’s majesty and predatory prowess are perfect metaphors for gridiron dominance.

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks draw their name from the osprey, a large fish-eating bird of prey often seen along the Pacific Northwest coastline. The osprey, also known as the sea hawk, is renowned for its exceptional hunting skills and its widespread presence in the region’s marine environment. The team’s navy blue, green, and silver colors reflect the lush forests and the vast waters of Washington state. The fierce, powerful image of the sea hawk perfectly embodies the team’s aggressive playing style and their passionate fan base, known as the “12th Man.”

Beyond the Pros: College Football Bird Teams and American Football Bird Mascots

The allure of avian mascots extends far beyond the NFL, with numerous college football programs proudly sporting bird-themed identities. These bird-themed football teams often have deep historical roots and strong regional connections to their chosen mascots.

The Mighty Eagles (Various Colleges)

Several prominent college football teams share the “Eagles” moniker. These include:

Boston College Eagles: Known for their distinctive maroon and gold colors, Boston College has a proud tradition of athletic excellence. Their mascot, “Baldy,” is a fierce representation of their namesake.
Eastern Michigan Eagles: Sporting green and white, Eastern Michigan has consistently fielded competitive teams, with their eagle mascot symbolizing agility and sharp focus.
Georgia Southern Eagles: Their blue and white colors are synonymous with a strong football program that embraces the aggressive spirit of the eagle.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds: While not strictly an eagle, the Thunderbird is a mythical bird of immense power in Native American folklore, fitting the fierce nature of football. Their red and white colors are a striking contrast.

The Fierce Falcons (Various Colleges)

The speed and predatory nature of the falcon also find favor in college football:

Bowling Green Falcons: This Ohio-based university uses orange and brown to represent their falcon mascot, symbolizing a keen eye for the game.
Air Force Falcons: Given their affiliation with the United States Air Force Academy, the falcon is a natural and fitting choice, representing aerial prowess and precision. Their blue and silver colors are a nod to the sky.
Fayetteville State Broncos: While the primary mascot is a bronco, the university also utilizes the falcon as a secondary symbol, highlighting its regional prevalence.

The Proud Cardinals (Various Colleges)

The striking appearance of the cardinal makes it a popular choice:

Ball State Cardinals: Their cardinal red and white colors are a vibrant representation of their energetic mascot.
Lamar Cardinals: This Texas university’s cardinal mascot, in its scarlet and white attire, embodies a fiery competitive spirit.
Wisconsin-Stout Blue Devils: While the primary mascot is a Blue Devil, the cardinal is often associated with their athletic programs due to its prevalence in the region.

The Majestic Ravens (Various Colleges)

The more somber yet powerful raven also finds its place:

Carnegie Mellon Tartans: While their primary mascot is a Scottish tartan, the raven is a popular and recognized symbol associated with the university’s legacy.
Franklin & Marshall College Diplomats: Similar to Carnegie Mellon, while the Diplomat is the official mascot, the raven often appears in athletic contexts.

Other Notable Avian Mascots

The diversity of football teams with avian names is truly impressive. Here are a few more examples:

North Carolina Tar Heels (Heel-less Boots, but often associated with a Blue Jay nickname): While the official nickname is “Tar Heels,” the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has a strong unofficial association with the Blue Jay, often seen as a spirited, darting bird. Their light blue and white colors complement this imagery.
Tulsa Golden Hurricane (often depicted with an eagle-like beak): Though the primary mascot is the Hurricane, the visual representation often features avian elements, particularly a sharp, beak-like structure.
San Diego State Aztecs (Aztec Eagle warrior): The Aztecs were known for their eagle warriors, symbolizing bravery and fierce combat. This connection to a powerful avian warrior is deeply embedded in their identity. Their red and black colors evoke a sense of ancient power.
Iowa State Cyclones (often associated with the Hawk, Hawkeye): While the “Cyclones” is their official name, the state of Iowa’s nickname is “The Hawkeye State,” and the University of Iowa (a rival) uses the Hawkeye as its mascot. This creates a common avian association within the state’s sporting culture.

The Psychology Behind Bird Mascots: Why the Fascination?

The enduring popularity of feathered football mascots is rooted in a combination of psychological, symbolic, and practical factors.

Symbolic Meanings

Birds, across various cultures and mythologies, carry potent symbolic weight:

Freedom and Liberation: Birds are unbound by terrestrial limitations, soaring through the sky. This evokes a sense of freedom, aspiration, and the pursuit of higher goals, all relevant to athletic endeavors.
Power and Dominance: Birds of prey, like eagles and falcons, are apex predators. Their keen eyesight, sharp talons, and swift hunting prowess translate into metaphors for dominance, aggression, and strategic advantage on the football field.
Vision and Foresight: The exceptional eyesight attributed to many birds, particularly raptors, symbolizes clear vision, foresight, and the ability to perceive opportunities and threats from a distance. This relates to strategic planning and play-calling in football.
Speed and Agility: Many birds are known for their incredible speed and agility in flight. These are highly desirable traits in football players, from swift wide receivers to nimble quarterbacks.
Resilience and Adaptation: Birds have adapted to diverse environments and can endure harsh conditions. This resilience is a crucial attribute for athletes facing physical and mental challenges.
Spirit and Vitality: The vibrant colors and energetic movements of many birds convey a sense of life, spirit, and vitality, which can inspire fans and players alike.

Practical Considerations for American Football Bird Mascots

Beyond symbolism, practical aspects also influence the choice of a bird mascot:

Visual Appeal: Birds, with their varied plumage and dynamic forms, create visually striking and memorable mascots. They lend themselves well to animated logos, energetic costumes, and impactful team branding.
Memorability and Brand Recognition: A distinctive bird mascot helps a team stand out in a crowded sports landscape. This aids in building brand recognition and fostering a strong fan connection.
Universality: While specific bird species might have regional ties, the concept of a “bird” as a mascot is generally understandable and appealing across different demographics.
Intimidation Factor: For some bird species, their natural predatory instincts and formidable appearance can instill a sense of intimidation in opponents.

Football Franchises Bird Names: A Historical Perspective

The tradition of football franchises bird names isn’t a recent phenomenon. Many teams have adopted avian identities that have persisted for decades, becoming an integral part of their heritage. The Philadelphia Eagles, for instance, have a long and storied history, dating back to 1933. Their eagle mascot has been a constant through various eras of the NFL, witnessing Super Bowl victories and heartbreaking losses, all under the watchful eye of their winged emblem.

Similarly, the Atlanta Falcons, established in 1966, quickly embraced their falcon identity, creating a memorable brand that has resonated with fans for generations. The choice of these avian names often reflects the cultural landscape and aspirations of the cities they represent at the time of their founding.

How Many NFL Teams Are Birds? A Deeper Dive

While we’ve established the five NFL teams, it’s worth reiterating the sheer dominance of avian themes in the league’s identity. This concentration isn’t accidental. It points to the effectiveness of bird imagery in creating strong, resonant team brands that appeal to a broad audience. The inherent power, grace, and symbolic richness of birds make them ideal candidates for representing the competitive spirit of professional football.

The List Revealed: A Comprehensive Look at Football Teams with Bird Names

To provide a clearer picture, here’s a consolidated list of prominent football teams with bird names, encompassing both professional and collegiate levels. This list is not exhaustive but highlights the widespread appeal of these avian mascots.

Team Name	League/Level	Primary Bird	Notable Color(s)
Baltimore Ravens	NFL	Raven	Purple, Black
Atlanta Falcons	NFL	Falcon	Red, Black
Arizona Cardinals	NFL	Cardinal	Red, White, Black
Philadelphia Eagles	NFL	Bald Eagle	Kelly Green, Silver
Seattle Seahawks	NFL	Osprey	Navy Blue, Green, Silver
Boston College Eagles	NCAA	Bald Eagle	Maroon, Gold
Eastern Michigan Eagles	NCAA	Bald Eagle	Green, White
Georgia Southern Eagles	NCAA	Bald Eagle	Blue, White
Air Force Falcons	NCAA	Falcon	Blue, Silver
Bowling Green Falcons	NCAA	Falcon	Orange, Brown
Ball State Cardinals	NCAA	Cardinal	Cardinal Red, White
Lamar Cardinals	NCAA	Cardinal	Scarlet, White
Southern Utah Thunderbirds	NCAA	Thunderbird	Red, White
North Carolina Tar Heels (unofficial Blue Jay)	NCAA	Blue Jay (unofficial)	Light Blue, White
San Diego State Aztecs (Eagle Warrior)	NCAA	Eagle (Warrior)	Red, Black

The Enduring Appeal of Feathered Football Mascots

The prevalence of bird-themed teams across all levels of American football is a testament to their enduring appeal. These avian mascots offer more than just a visual identity; they embody qualities that resonate with the very essence of sport: strength, freedom, precision, and the unyielding spirit of competition. Whether it’s the NFL’s elite or college programs striving for gridiron glory, the football teams named after birds continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of fans, proving that in the world of football, the sky’s the limit when you have wings to carry you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which NFL team is named after a bird associated with Edgar Allan Poe?
A1: The Baltimore Ravens are named after Edgar Allan Poe’s famous poem, “The Raven.”

Q2: Are there more NFL teams named after birds than any other animal category?
A2: While there are other animal mascots in the NFL (e.g., Lions, Bears, Rams, Dolphins), birds represent a significant and iconic portion of the league’s mascots.

Q3: What is the significance of the eagle as a mascot for the Philadelphia Eagles?
A3: The bald eagle is a powerful symbol of freedom, strength, and patriotism in the United States, aligning with the historical significance of Philadelphia.

Q4: Do other professional sports leagues also feature a high number of bird-themed teams?
A4: Yes, bird mascots are popular across various professional sports leagues, including baseball (e.g., Toronto Blue Jays, St. Louis Cardinals) and basketball (e.g., Atlanta Hawks).

Q5: What are some common traits associated with bird mascots in football?
A5: Common traits include speed, agility, keen eyesight, power, freedom, and predatory prowess.