The “maids a milking bird” is not an actual species of bird but rather a fun and imaginative idea that associates a type of bird with the “eight maids a-milking” from the Christmas carol. This concept likely refers to a bird that has some connection to cows or farm life, such as the cattle egret, which is known for following cattle and feeding on the insects they disturb.
The “maids a milking” in the song refers to cattle egrets. These are small, white birds often seen around cattle. They benefit from insects stirred up by the livestock, making them a fitting choice for this part of the Christmas carol.
Why is the “Maids a Milking Bird” Mentioned in the Christmas Carol?
The original line in the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” mentions “eight maids a-milking,” which traditionally symbolizes milkmaids working on a farm. Milkmaids were an important part of rural life, responsible for milking cows and providing fresh milk to communities.
The idea of a “maids a milking bird” adds a playful twist to this concept by imagining that the line could represent a bird instead of actual milkmaids. This interpretation is not meant to be taken literally but rather to add a fun and whimsical element to the song. By thinking of a bird that might be associated with farm life, such as the cattle egret, the “maids a milking bird” brings a new and imaginative perspective to the traditional lyrics. It’s a way of connecting the carol to nature and birds, making the song even more enjoyable and entertaining.
How Did the “Maids a Milking Bird” Get Its Name?
The name “maids a milking bird” comes from the Christmas carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” The song mentions several birds, like the partridge and turtle doves, so it’s easy to imagine that the “maids a-milking” could also refer to a bird. A bird like the cattle egret fits this idea because it’s often seen near cows, which are milked by maids.
Which Bird Could Be Considered the “Maids a Milking Bird”?
Cattle Egret Overview:
Cattle egrets are small, white birds that are commonly seen around farms. They have a distinctive white plumage and are known for their interaction with livestock.
Cattle Egret and Livestock:
Cattle egrets are often found near cows and other farm animals. As the cows walk around, they stir up insects from the ground. The cattle egrets take advantage of this by catching and eating the insects that are disturbed.
Cattle Egret as the “Maids a Milking Bird”:
The cattle egret is a great fit for the “maids a milking bird” because it shares a close relationship with farm animals. Just as the maids in the song are associated with milking cows, the cattle egret benefits from being around livestock, making it a fitting and whimsical choice for this title.
The Twelve Days of Christmas – A Festive Bird Overview!
On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
A partridge in a pear tree.
- Partridge: A partridge is a ground-feeding bird, often found in the English countryside. It’s a small, plump bird with a lovely appearance, making it a charming symbol for the first day of Christmas.
On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Turtle Doves: Turtle doves are delicate, beautiful birds with soft feathers. They are typically seen in summer and are known for their gentle demeanor.
On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- French Hens: French hens are known for their attractive plumage and their ability to lay lots of eggs. The Favorelles breed is often associated with this Christmas gift.
On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Calling Birds: Originally referred to as “colly birds” (black birds). These are songbirds known for their melodious calls, which can be quite enchanting.
On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Gold Rings: While not a bird, the gold rings symbolize something precious and valuable, adding a touch of luxury to the song.
On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Geese a-Laying: Geese are large birds known for laying eggs. They are majestic and have been associated with both agricultural life and festive celebrations.
On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Swans a-Swimming: Swans are elegant birds with long necks and beautiful white feathers. They are often seen gliding gracefully across the water.
On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.
- Maids a-Milking: These are represented by cattle egrets, small white birds that live near livestock. They benefit from the insects disturbed by the animals, making them a fitting choice for this line.
On the ninth day of Christmas, the song says
Nine ladies dancing
- Ladies Dancing: This line refers to a group of nine dancers. While not a bird, it symbolizes a lively and festive celebration, highlighting the joy and movement associated with dancing.
“On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Ten lords dancing and lots of gifts to see
On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
A big festive show with music, dance, and glee!
With pipers piping, lords leaping, and ladies spinning free,
Plus all the gifts from the days before, a wonderful Christmas spree!”
- Eleven pipers piping: The line “Eleven pipers piping” refers to eleven musicians playing the pipes, a traditional Scottish instrument. In the context of the song, it means that the speaker’s true love has sent them a gift of live music, specifically the sound of eleven pipers playing their pipes.
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me
A grand finale of music, dance, and festive glee!
With drummers drumming, pipers piping, and lords leaping free,
It’s a joyful Christmas celebration for you and me!
- Twelve drummers drumming: This Line refers to twelve musicians playing drums, adding to the festive and celebratory atmosphere of the Christmas celebration. It’s a lively and energetic addition to the gifts, symbolizing the excitement and joy of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why are some birds in the song not found in the UK?
The song includes birds from different places, like French hens and swans, which may not be native to the UK. This adds to the song’s fun and imaginative nature.
What do the birds in the song represent?
Each bird might have a special meaning. For example, the partridge could symbolize Christ, while swans and geese might represent beauty and abundance.
How did “colly birds” become “calling birds”?
“Colly birds” used to mean blackbirds. Over time, the term changed to “calling birds,” which can refer to any birds that sing or call.
Are there different versions of the song in other languages or cultures?
Yes, the song has different versions in various languages and cultures, with some changing the gifts to fit local traditions or preferences.
Conclusion:
“The Twelve Days of Christmas” is a joyful song that brings a variety of birds into the spotlight. From the graceful swans to the clever cattle egrets, each bird adds its own charm to the festive tune. Whether you’re familiar with all the birds or just enjoying the melody, the song remains a delightful way to celebrate the season and its unique gifts.
