Stymphalian Birds
The flock driven out of dense cover by the thunder of bronze clappers.
Overview
The Stymphalian Birds turn the sixth labour into a problem of sound and timing. They remain concealed in dense woodland by Lake Stymphalus, where Heracles cannot safely enter or make them expose themselves. Athena supplies bronze clappers made by Hephaestus; the violent noise startles the flock into the open air, where his bow can finally reach them.
Key facts
Hidden in the wood
The flock occupies inaccessible woodland and cannot initially be driven out.
Rising at the bronze sound
The clappers’ noise forces the hidden birds into the air and makes them targetable.
Relationships
- Labours of Heraclespart of the Labours
This figure, target or episode belongs to the commanded sequence of the Labours.
- Heraclesdrives out with noise and shoots
Once the clappers startle the birds into flight, Heracles attacks with his bow.
Story appearances
- The Labours of HeraclesStymphalian Birds in the Labours
Stymphalian Birds enters this story through Heracles' labours; when other stories return to the figure, they follow that later setting.
Ancient sources
MythWeave distinguishes ancient-source evidence from later adaptations and modern interpretation.