1.
birds, rabbits
A counter for birds and rabbits. Historically, rabbits were counted with this counter because monks could eat rabbit meat if they called them 'birds.'
羽 is the counter for birds and rabbits.
COUNTING READINGS:
Note the sound changes: ば after ん, ぱ after っ.
ETYMOLOGY:
The origin of counting rabbits with 羽 is traditionally attributed to Buddhist monks: since eating meat was forbidden, they classified rabbits as "birds" (鳥) so they could eat them. While this folk etymology is well known, the actual origin is debated.
USAGE:
Used for all types of birds, from small songbirds to large birds like cranes. Also used for rabbits but not for other small mammals.