Florida Lawmaker Proposes Flamingo as New State Bird, Mockingbird's Status in Question

Representative Jim Mooney's bill seeks to replace the mockingbird with the American flamingo and designate the Florida scrub-jay as the state songbird, reigniting debate over Florida's avian symbols.

• The mockingbird, Florida's state bird since 1927, is also the official bird of four other states, prompting calls for a unique replacement.
• Republican Representative Jim Mooney's proposal includes making the American flamingo the state bird and the Florida scrub-jay the state songbird.
• Supporters argue the flamingo is an iconic symbol of Florida's culture and ecosystems, while critics defend the mockingbird's representation of resilience and family protection.
• The Florida scrub-jay, a threatened species found only in Florida, has faced opposition in the past due to concerns over potential land development restrictions.
• The bill will be debated in the Florida Legislature when the session begins on March 4, with prior attempts to change the state bird having failed in committee.

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