The spurs present on most Aquilegia flowers are unique and give rise to its scientific and common names:
1) "Aquilegia", Latin for "Eagle", refers to the Eagle talon-like spurs. 
2) "Columbine", Latin ("columbinus") for "Dove", refers to the flower's resemblance (from the rear or side of the flower) to a group of Doves. 

Weber places Aquilegia in Helleboraceae, not Ranunculaceae. 

Alpine, subalpine, montane.  Meadows, woodlands, rocks, scree.  Summer.
West Mancos Trail, June 26, 2004.

Alpine, subalpine, montane.  Meadows, woodlands, rocks, scree.  Summer.
West Mancos Trail, June 26, 2004.

Alpine, subalpine, montane.  Meadows, woodlands, rocks, scree.  Summer.
Sharkstooth Trail, July 18, 2005.