The official state bird of Arkansas is the Northern Mockingbird. State symbols represent a region’s natural heritage and characteristics valued by its people. The mockingbird was chosen for this status due to its widespread presence and notable qualities, making it one of the most commonly sighted birds across Arkansas landscapes, from city parks to rural areas.
Identifying the State Bird
The Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) is a medium-sized songbird easily identified by its appearance and behavior. Its body is primarily gray to brownish-gray on the upper parts, with a paler, whitish belly and a long tail. A particularly distinctive feature is the large white patches on its wings, which become highly visible in flight, often creating a flashing effect. This slender bird measures about eight to eleven inches in length, with a wingspan ranging from 12 to 15 inches.
The most notable trait of the species is its remarkable vocal mimicry, reflected in its scientific name meaning “many-languaged mimicker.” A single male may imitate the songs and calls of up to 200 different bird species. The mockingbird’s song is a continuous series of phrases, with each motif usually repeated two to six times before transitioning. This repertoire can include sounds from insects, amphibians, and artificial noises like car alarms.
The History of Its Selection
The Northern Mockingbird was formally designated as the Arkansas state bird in 1929 by the 47th General Assembly. This selection resulted from a campaign spearheaded by the Arkansas Federation of Women’s Clubs (AFWC), which championed the cause of conservation and state symbols. The bird was already a popular and well-known species throughout Arkansas, making it a natural choice for the honor.
The legislative action recognized the bird for its melodious and complex vocal artistry. Although it was a common species adopted by several other southern states, its widespread presence and song quality across Arkansas solidified public support, providing a symbolic representation of the state’s natural soundscape.
Where to Find the Bird in Arkansas
The Northern Mockingbird is a permanent resident, found across Arkansas year-round. It is highly adaptable and thrives in a variety of environments, including open woodlands, forest edges, and agricultural lands. The species is particularly successful in human-modified habitats, frequently inhabiting suburban neighborhoods, city parks, and residential gardens.
Its preferred habitat includes open ground for foraging, paired with dense shrubs or trees for nesting and cover. They are commonly seen perched on utility wires, fence posts, or high treetops across the mountainous Ozark and Ouachita ranges, as well as the delta areas. The bird’s omnivorous diet shifts seasonally, consisting mainly of insects during warmer months, and relying more on wild berries, seeds, and cultivated fruits as temperatures drop.
Mockingbirds are famously territorial, especially during the spring nesting season when they fiercely defend their established boundaries. They will actively chase off other birds and sometimes even pets or humans perceived as threats to their nest or feeding area. This bold behavior, combined with their year-round presence, makes them a highly visible and constant part of the Arkansas environment.