Early Adoptions
States began officially designating their state birds, often through school children's votes.
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 | 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 |
Most state birds are species native to North America, representing local wildlife populations.
The Northern Cardinal is the most common state bird, chosen by seven different states.
Many state birds are migratory species, spending different seasons in various parts of the country.
Several state birds are now protected species, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.
States began officially designating their state birds, often through school children's votes.
Growing environmental awareness influenced the selection of state birds.
State birds have become important symbols for wildlife conservation and environmental education.
The Northern Cardinal is the official bird of seven different states.
Hawaii's Nene is the only state bird that's found nowhere else in the world.
Several state birds, like the Brown Pelican, have recovered from near extinction.
Many state birds are featured in local art, literature, and cultural celebrations.