While birdwatching in Jamaica, Ian Fleming stumbled upon a book by an American ornithologist named James Bond. He found the name to be ideal for his future spy hero — short, simple, and unromantic, which perfectly aligned with his vision for the protagonist of Casino Royale.
Fleming's decision to use this ordinary name for his iconic character added a layer of authenticity and relatability to the suave spy. As a playful nod to this origin story, the film Die Another Day features James Bond posing as an ornithologist while entering Cuba, picking up a copy of the real Bond’s book, but the name is scratched out.
This clever tribute serves to connect the fictional world of espionage with the unexpected realm of ornithology, highlighting how a chance encounter can lead to the creation of one of literature and film's most enduring characters. The juxtaposition of a birdwatcher’s name with that of a legendary spy underscores Fleming's unique approach to character development and storytelling.
