How the Birds Got Their Songs

Story by Travis Zimmerman Illustrations by Sam Zimmerman / Zhaawanoogiizhik
Retold in Ojibwemowin by Marcus Ammesmaki / Aanikanootaagewin

Courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society Press

When the Great Spirit presents a challenge to the birds, one of the birds tricks the others and earns the prettiest song. Find out which bird—and where you can hear it today.

The Great Spirit held a contest so that each bird could earn the song that was just right for its species. He called together all the birds, from the smallest sparrow to the largest hawk, and told them the plan. Each would fly as high in the sky as it could, and when it returned to Mother Earth it would receive its song.

Eagle was certain his strong wings would help him fly highest of all and earn the prettiest song. But he did not know that, while the Great Spirit was talking, the tiny hermit thrush had snuggled into eagle’s feathers to take a nap.
All the birds flew and flew, higher and higher, each descending to receive its own special song from the Great Spirit. But which bird flew the highest? Which one received the prettiest song?

This treasured story, handed down through the Zimmerman family, features traditional knowledge from the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Grand Portage direct descendant Sam Zimmerman’s vibrant illustrations showcase his deep love and respect for feathered creatures. And Marcus Ammesmaki’s Ojibwemowin text brings the story full circle, encouraging language learners to explore this age-old depiction of our natural world—and inviting all readers to cherish the gift of birdsong.

Travis Zimmerman is site manager at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post.
Sam Zimmerman / Zhaawanoogiizhik creates paintings in his Duluth studio.