Valentine's Day is a holiday of love, but did you know that it has a historical link to the birds? While modern Valentine’s traditions involve chocolates, flowers, and heartfelt cards, the origins of this holiday are deeply tied to both history and nature—particularly, the idea that February marks the beginning of the bird mating season.
A Brief History of Valentine’s Day
The origins of Valentine's Day are Romans in antiquity. One legend tells of St. Valentine, a priest who secretly performed marriages for soldiers forbidden to wed. Another version suggests he was imprisoned for helping Christians and sent a farewell letter to a loved one signed “From your Valentine.
Over time, February 14th became associated with romance and devotion. However, the association of Valentine's Day and birds can be explained before the Middle Ages. The renowned poet Geoffrey Chaucer, in his 14th-century poem Parliament of Fowls:
"For this was on Saint Valentine’s Day, When every fowl cometh there to choose his mate."
This idea—that birds begin pairing up in mid-February—helped reinforce the connection between love and the natural world, making birds a lasting symbol of romance.
Birds and Their Love Stories
Birds have been a symbol of love and affection ever since Chaucer's era. Varies of species show long-term commitment, tenderness and even gift-giving - not unlike human valentine's day couples
Mourning Doves are commonly observed grooming one another's plumage as an expression of affection.
Northern Cardinals sing sweet melodies to their mates, reinforcing their bond.
Swans—perhaps the ultimate symbol of romance—form lifelong partnerships, mirroring the idea of everlasting love.
House Finches eat communally and are good at sharing with their partner which in turn can strengthen pair bonds.
A Valentine’s Day Date with Nature
If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful way to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day, why not go birdwatching? No matter if you stroll in a local park, make a visit to a nature reserve, or simply watch your backyard feeders, you are sure to observe charming scenes of courtship and attachment in the avian world.
And if you’re in Sacramento, stop by our store for bird-friendly gifts—whether it’s a feeder to attract songbirds or a guidebook to help you and your loved one discover more about our feathered friends!
This year, let’s take inspiration from nature and celebrate love in all its forms—because, as the birds remind us, love truly is in the air.