Celebrating America’s avian diversity: state by state
Birds have always been integral to the human story – they represent freedom, grace, and the untamed heart of nature. Each state in America has chosen a bird that symbolizes its unique spirit and heritage. Let’s embark on a journey that takes us from the eastern shores of Delaware to the western cliffs of California, and from the northern reaches of Alaska to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, uncovering the fascinating stories of America’s state birds.
The significance of birds
Birds are more than just a pretty sight or a melodious sound at dawn. They hold a mirror to our environment, signaling the health of our ecosystems. With their diverse behaviors and habitats, they teach us about adaptability and survival. Through birdwatching, we not only connect with nature but also learn about our local environment and its place in the larger world.
Avian wonders
Each state bird offers a unique tale of nature and culture interwoven. The Meadowlark, gracing several states with its presence, sings a song that is quintessentially American. The Nene or Hawaiian Goose, an environmental success story, represents the spirit of conservation in Hawaii. Every bird, from the large and majestic, like the California Quail, to the small and vibrant, like the American Goldfinch, contributes a distinct thread to the tapestry of America’s avian life.
State birds and conservation
The presence of diverse bird species signals a healthy environment. Yet, many of these birds face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Organizations like Audubon and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology work tirelessly to study and protect these feathered treasures. By learning about our state birds, we also learn about the environmental challenges they face and how we can contribute to their conservation.
America’s state birds
Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or a casual admirer of nature’s melodies, the birds around us offer a window into the heart of the wild. By recognizing our state birds, we pay tribute to our unique regional identities and the avian life that graces our skies, fields, and forests. As you explore these bird species, may their songs fill your outdoor adventures with joy and wonder!
| State/Territory | State Bird |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Yellowhammer |
| Alaska | Willow Ptarmigan |
| Arizona | Cactus Wren |
| Arkansas | Northern Mockingbird |
| California | California Quail |
| Colorado | Lark Bunting |
| Connecticut | American Robin |
| Delaware | Blue Hen Chicken |
| Florida | Northern Mockingbird |
| Georgia | Brown Thrasher |
| Hawaii | Nene (Hawaiian Goose) |
| Idaho | Mountain Bluebird |
| Illinois | Northern Cardinal |
| Indiana | Northern Cardinal |
| Iowa | Eastern Goldfinch |
| Kansas | Western Meadowlark |
| Kentucky | Northern Cardinal |
| Louisiana | Brown Pelican |
| Maine | Black-capped Chickadee |
| Maryland | Baltimore Oriole |
| Massachusetts | Black-capped Chickadee |
| Michigan | American Robin |
| Minnesota | Common Loon |
| Mississippi | Northern Mockingbird |
| Missouri | Eastern Bluebird |
| Montana | Western Meadowlark |
| Nebraska | Western Meadowlark |
| Nevada | Mountain Bluebird |
| New Hampshire | Purple Finch |
| New Jersey | Eastern Goldfinch |
| New Mexico | Greater Roadrunner |
| New York | Eastern Bluebird |
| North Carolina | Northern Cardinal |
| North Dakota | Western Meadowlark |
| Ohio | Northern Cardinal |
| Oklahoma | Scissor-tailed Flycatcher |
| Oregon | Western Meadowlark |
| Pennsylvania | Ruffed Grouse |
| Rhode Island | Rhode Island Red |
| South Carolina | Carolina Wren |
| South Dakota | Ring-necked Pheasant |
| Tennessee | Northern Mockingbird |
| Texas | Northern Mockingbird |
| Utah | American Kestrel |
| Vermont | Hermit Thrush |
| Virginia | Northern Cardinal |
| Washington | American Goldfinch |
| West Virginia | Northern Cardinal |
| Wisconsin | American Robin |
| Wyoming | Western Meadowlark |
| District of Columbia | Wood Thrush |
| American Samoa | Many-colored Fruit Dove |
| Guam | Guam Rail |
| Northern Mariana Islands | Mariana Fruit Dove |
| Puerto Rico | Puerto Rican Spindalis |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | Yellow Breast (Bananaquit) |
