US State Birds

Each U.S. state has designated an official state bird, chosen to represent the state's wildlife heritage and natural diversity. These birds, selected through careful consideration, often represent species that are particularly significant to the state's ecosystem or cultural identity.

State birds are important symbols that appear on state seals, flags, and other official emblems. Many were chosen for their abundance in the state or their important role in the state's natural history.

State Birds Directory

State Official Bird Scientific Name Year Adopted
Alabama Yellowhammer Colaptes auratus 1927
Alaska Willow Ptarmigan Lagopus lagopus 1955
Arizona Cactus Wren Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus 1931
Arkansas Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos 1929
California California Valley Quail Callipepla californica 1931
Colorado Lark Bunting Calamospiza melanocorys 1931
Connecticut American Robin Turdus migratorius 1943
Delaware Blue Hen Chicken Gallus gallus 1939
Florida Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos 1927
Georgia Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum 1935
Hawaii Nene Branta sandvicensis 1957
Idaho Mountain Bluebird Sialia currucoides 1931
Illinois Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis 1929

Interesting Bird Facts

Native Species

Most state birds are species native to North America, representing local wildlife populations.

Popular Choices

The Northern Cardinal is the most common state bird, chosen by seven different states.

Migratory Patterns

Many state birds are migratory species, spending different seasons in various parts of the country.

Conservation Status

Several state birds are now protected species, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.

Categories of State Birds

Songbirds

  • Kentucky - Cardinal
  • Tennessee - Mockingbird
  • Massachusetts - Black-capped Chickadee

Game Birds

  • California - California Valley Quail
  • South Dakota - Ring-necked Pheasant
  • Alabama - Yellowhammer

Birds of Prey

  • Idaho - Mountain Bluebird
  • Mississippi - Mockingbird
  • Oklahoma - Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Unique Species

  • Hawaii - Nene (Hawaiian Goose)
  • Alaska - Willow Ptarmigan
  • Louisiana - Brown Pelican

History of State Birds

1920s

Early Adoptions

States began officially designating their state birds, often through school children's votes.

1930s-1940s

Conservation Movement

Growing environmental awareness influenced the selection of state birds.

1950s-Present

Modern Significance

State birds have become important symbols for wildlife conservation and environmental education.

Did You Know?

Most Common State Bird

The Northern Cardinal is the official bird of seven different states.

Unique Choices

Hawaii's Nene is the only state bird that's found nowhere else in the world.

Conservation Success

Several state birds, like the Brown Pelican, have recovered from near extinction.

Cultural Impact

Many state birds are featured in local art, literature, and cultural celebrations.