ShareThisU.S. States Interesting Facts
We share our world with birds. Out of respect and recognition for these creatures, we designate birds as state symbols. To be chosen as a state bird, does a bird species have to exist only in that particular state? Not really, as you will see. Though some very peculiar birds have been chosen.
Popular State Birds
Birds make their nests without respect to official state boundaries. Perhaps that's why several birds make repeat appearances as state symbols. The Black-capped Chickadee, for example, is recognized by Maine and Massachusetts. The American Robin holds the state bird title for Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The Western Meadowlark has been selected as state bird by Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, and Wyoming. The Mocking Bird is the state bird for Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. The Cardinal tops the charts with official state bird designation in 7 states: West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois.
Unique State Birds
Some state birds have unusual features or names, or are simply surprising choices for one reason or another. For example, the Eastern Brown Pelican, state bird of Louisiana, has a huge scoop beak particular to pelicans. The name of Minnesota's state bird, the Common Loon, sounds like a descriptive term for a local eccentric. Okalahoma's Scissor-tailed Fly-catcher sounds like a must-see circus act. The Delaware Blue Hen Chicken and the Rhode Island Red Chicken are, well, just chickens. New Mexico's Road Runner also appears as the infamous cartoon character, bane of Wile E. Coyote. The Baltimore Oriole of Maryland inspired a state baseball team. South Carolina's Wild Turkey, the official state game bird, has its own whiskey label.
Humankind has long admired the creatures of the air. The designation of birds as state symbols is one way we express our appreciation for their presence in our skies.
