Arkansas State Bird: Northern Mockingbird
Fact-checked • Updated November 24, 2025
Arkansas State Bird – Northern Mockingbird
Arkansas selected the Northern Mockingbird as its state bird in March 1929. The Arkansas Federation of Women's Clubs supported the campaign. Populations occur across farms, towns, and wooded areas. Arkansas shares this species with Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. Adults copy more than two hundred sounds drawn from nearby birds and common sources.
Why Arkansas Chose the Northern Mockingbird as State Bird
Arkansas adopted the Northern Mockingbird as its state bird in March 1929. Lawmakers supported the choice after hearing arguments about the bird's usefulness and familiarity.
The Arkansas Federation of Women's Clubs led the campaign. Mrs. W. A. Utley directed efforts across the state. Club members wanted a bird that reflected Arkansas's landscapes and helped local farms.
Some legislators doubted the proposal at first. Supporters explained the bird's role in controlling insects and seeds that harmed crops. This evidence helped gain support during the legislative process.
Mockingbirds eat beetles, grasshoppers, ants, caterpillars, and other insects that damage fields. They also eat weed seeds during warm months and berries in winter. These habits made the bird useful to farmers.
Arkansas shares this species with four southern states: Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. Only the Northern Cardinal and Western Meadowlark appear more often as state birds.
History of Adoption: Legislation & Timeline
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Early 1900s — Public Support Grows
Naturalists and bird protection groups encouraged states to adopt official birds. They promoted species that helped agriculture and lived in settled areas. The mockingbird fit these goals across the South.
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Late 1920s — Arkansas Campaign Begins
The Arkansas Federation of Women's Clubs organized a statewide campaign for a state bird. Members contacted legislators and held meetings to promote the mockingbird.
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March 1929 — Arkansas Selects the Bird
The Arkansas General Assembly approved the Northern Mockingbird as the state bird. The choice reflected the bird's presence across the state and its agricultural value.
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Current Law
State law designates the mockingbird as the official state bird of Arkansas.
Symbolism & Cultural Meaning
Agricultural Helper
The mockingbird symbolizes Arkansas agriculture. It protects crops by eating insects and weed seeds. Farmers valued the species for its constant presence in fields and orchards.
Southern Identity
The mockingbird forms part of southern culture. Its repeating songs fill Arkansas neighborhoods and farmland. Five southern states share this symbol, linking Arkansas to the region.
Intelligence and Adaptability
The mockingbird represents intelligence and adaptability. Birds learn many sounds and defend territories with persistence. They thrive in cities, suburbs, and rural areas across Arkansas.
Cultural Impact
The mockingbird gained national recognition through literature and popular culture. It often symbolizes innocence, protection, and resilience.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Build
Northern Mockingbirds measure 8 to 10 inches long. They weigh up to 2 ounces. Their wingspan reaches 12 to 14 inches. The long tail forms a major part of their length.
Coloration and Markings
Gray-brown feathers cover the head and back. White feathers cover the chest and belly. Birds show two narrow wing bars and large white wing patches during flight.
Bill and Eyes
Mockingbirds have a thin black bill that curves slightly downward. Adults show pale yellow or green-yellow eyes. Young birds display darker eye colors.
Males vs Females
Males and females look similar. Plumage shows no clear differences. Juveniles appear duller with spotted breasts.
Behavior & Habits
Vocal Abilities
Northern Mockingbirds imitate over two hundred sounds. They repeat each phrase several times before changing. Males sing most often, especially during spring.
Song Repertoire
Individual birds build a large collection of songs. Spring songs attract mates. Fall songs defend feeding territories. Birds add new sounds throughout life.
Night Singing
Unmated males often sing at night. Bright moonlight increases this behavior. Both sexes sing during fall while defending winter territories.
Territorial Defense
Mockingbirds defend territories all year. They chase intruders, including larger animals. Birds dive at threats to protect nests and food sources.
Foraging Behavior
Mockingbirds hunt insects on the ground. They flash white wing patches to startle prey. Birds perch on high points to watch for insects and switch to berries in winter.
Habitat & Conservation in Arkansas
Where to Find Mockingbirds in Arkansas
Northern Mockingbirds live across Arkansas year-round. They appear in suburbs, parks, farmland, and open regions. Birds adapt well to the Ozarks, the Ouachitas, the Delta, and urban areas.
Preferred Habitats
Mockingbirds favor open spaces with shrubs and scattered trees. They live near farmland, forest edges, and suburban yards. Berry-producing plants attract them throughout the year.
Seasonal Patterns
Arkansas hosts permanent populations. Some northern birds move into Arkansas for winter. Breeding begins in late March and continues through summer.
Conservation Status
The species holds a Least Concern status. North American populations declined in recent decades, but Arkansas numbers remain stable.
Threats and Challenges
Urban growth reduces shrubby habitat. Pesticides lower insect numbers. Feral cats pose major risks. Climate trends may shift the species' range.
How to Help Mockingbirds in Arkansas
- Plant native berry shrubs
- Keep cats indoors
- Reduce pesticide use
- Maintain dense shrubs for nesting
- Provide clean water sources
- Support bird conservation groups
Interesting Facts About Arkansas's Northern Mockingbird
Fact 1 of 10
Arkansas shares the Northern Mockingbird with four other states
Northern Mockingbird Songs & Calls
Hear the clear whistles and sharp calls of the Northern Mockingbird. These field recordings capture their distinctive voice in natural habitat.
Audio licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Also the State Bird of:
Sources & References
This article has been researched using authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. All information has been fact-checked and verified against official government records and scientific databases.
Authoritative source on Arkansas state symbols including the history of mockingbird adoption. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Comprehensive article covering taxonomy, biology, distribution, and cultural significance. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Detailed identification guide with behavior, sounds, and range information. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Habitat details, diet, nesting behavior, and conservation insights. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Educational information about physical traits and natural history. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
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