It is interesting to note that many of the verses in the song are based on the early beliefs and rituals of the ancients. 

"A partridge in a pear tree"

"Wassailing" the fruit trees was a fertility right that likely dates back to the Druids. Wassail or "waes hael" means "be whole" or good health. In the eighteenth century, a ritual was performed at the tree. The procedure consisted of pouring cider, honey, and spices from a wooden wassail bowl around the base of the tree. The individuals made a lot of noise in the vicinity of the tree so that evil spirits hanging about the place would be frightened away.

Another folk tale was also based on the use of a fruit tree. It was believed that if a young woman walked backward three times around a pear tree on Christmas morning, the image of her future husband would be seen hidden among the branches of the tree.

"Four Colly* Birds" and "Five Gold Rings"

Birds were a common fodder at feasts. Colly birds, for example, were common European blackbirds. The blackbirds were eaten as part of the twelve-day feast. The blackbird was considered fine food, particularly during the medieval era. 

The birds were hung and allowed to decay. (Believe it or not, this was considered the preferable way to eat the meat). The meat was then marinated with various spices and made into pies. Other types of meats went into meat pies including badger.

The phrase "five gold rings" does not refer to jewelry, but the ring-necked pheasant. The pheasant was a popular game meat during the Middle Ages. Swan and peacock were also an important staple at feasts.

*Not "calling" bird.

"Eight Maids a – milking"

In the English version of the "Twelve Days of Christmas," the statement refers to the many byproducts of milk. In general, fresh milk was not consumed as it quickly separated and would become soured. (No refrigeration at that time!) Instead, soured milk, cream, cheese, and sweet milk were used in many medieval recipes of the time.

The favorite milk-based food of the medieval age was custard. Cheese was another favorite in Britain and France. On Christmas night in the eighteenth century, many families played a game called "Yawning for the Chesire Cheese". The participants yawned as wide and long as possible. The individual with the widest, biggest yawn got to take the cheese home.

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