Ever wondered what the official state bird of Oklahoma is? If you’re curious, it’s the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher – an exotic and unique bird native to this part of America. Our blog post will uncover fascinating details about this distinct creature, reasons why it was chosen as a symbol of Oklahoma, and interesting facts that make it even more special. We’ll also tell you where you can spot the scissor tailed Flycatcher in Oklahoma. So, without wasting any time, let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is the official state bird of Oklahoma.
- Its long, scissor – like tail makes it unique and easy to spot.
- It was chosen for its role in controlling harmful insects and its presence within Oklahoma’s nesting range.
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher: Oklahoma’s State Bird
The state bird of Oklahoma is the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus). This bird, also known as the Texas bird-of-paradise and swallow-tailed flycatcher, is easily recognizable due to its long, forked tail, which can be twice the length of its body.
Why was it chosen as the state bird?
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), with its distinctive long forked tail and graceful aerial acrobatics, is an iconic bird of the southern Great Plains and is especially abundant in Oklahoma. It was chosen as the official state bird due to several reasons:
- Distinctive Appearance: The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is immediately recognizable by its long, split tail and elegant form. This makes it a standout among other birds and serves as a memorable symbol for the state.
- Territorial Representation: The bird’s range covers a significant portion of Oklahoma, making it a common sight throughout the state during its breeding season.
- Symbolic Meaning: The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher’s beauty, grace, and unique characteristics can be seen as symbolic of Oklahoma’s own unique charm and spirit.
- Economic and Cultural Importance: Birds often attract enthusiasts, researchers, and birdwatchers. A distinctive state bird can be a point of interest for tourists and can have cultural and economic value for the state.
When did it become the state bird?
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher became the official state bird of Oklahoma in 1951. It was chosen to represent the state due to its presence within Oklahoma’s nesting range and its unique features, such as its long tail and graceful flight.
Despite an unsuccessful initial attempt, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher eventually gained recognition as a symbol of Oklahoma’s wildlife and avian species. Today, it is celebrated and featured on various platforms, including the state license plate and a mural called “Oklahoma Phoenix.”.
What does it look like?
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is a striking bird that can be easily recognized by its unique appearance. It has a long, scissor-like tail that can grow up to nine inches in length.
This elegant appendage gives the bird its name and sets it apart from other species. The body of the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is slender and graceful, with grayish-brown feathers on top and white feathers underneath.
Its wings are also grayish-brown, while its head and upper breast display a pale pink color. With its distinct features, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is truly a sight to behold in the skies of Oklahoma.
Behavior and Habitat
- Scissor-tailed Flycatchers are found in open habitats with scattered trees, including grasslands, agricultural areas, and along roadsides.
- They build nests in isolated trees, shrubs, utility poles, or other man-made structures.
- These acrobatic hunters catch insects on the wing. With their keen eyesight, they scan for prey from a perch before launching into flight to grab the insect mid-air.
- They sometimes swing their tail from side to side to startle insects into motion. Their scissor-like tail provides excellent maneuverability during aerial pursuits.
Diet and feeding habits
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher has an insectivorous diet, meaning it eats insects. This makes it beneficial for Oklahoma’s ecosystem. Some of the insects that the bird feeds on include mealworms, grasshoppers, bees, wasps, and butterflies.
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher catches its prey by flying out from a perch and snatching it in mid-air. It can also hover in the air to catch insects. The bird is known for its graceful hunting style and agile flight.
Breeding and Migration
- Scissor-tailed Flycatchers breed in Oklahoma and other southern states from March to June.
- The male performs elaborate courtship displays, including pendulum flights, to attract a mate.
- The female builds a nest of twigs, grass, and feathers in a tree fork and lays 3-7 eggs. Both parents feed the hatchlings.
- These birds are migratory, wintering in Central America and returning to Oklahoma each spring to breed. Some may migrate as far as South America.
History and Symbolism
- Native American tribes, including the Comanche, were familiar with the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and incorporated it into folklore. Tribes along the Salt Fork River called them “snake birds.”
- Early European settlers in Oklahoma were impressed by the bird’s dramatic tail and acrobatic aerial displays.
- It was adopted as the state bird in 1951, chosen for its uniqueness and natural beauty. The forked tail echoes Oklahoma’s Native American heritage.
- For Oklahoma residents, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher remains a beloved sight each spring, representing the return of warmer weather and renewal of the seasons.
Conservation Status
- The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher has a large range but its population has declined by over 20% in recent decades.
- Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change threaten these birds. They are classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
- Preserving native grasslands and reducing pesticide use in agricultural areas can help conserve Scissor-tailed Flycatcher populations.
Interesting Facts about the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher
- The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is also known as the “Texas bird-of-paradise” due to its striking appearance.
- It is an insectivorous bird, meaning it primarily feeds on insects.
- The Scissor – tailed Flycatcher belongs to the genus Tyrannus, which includes other species of kingbirds.
- This bird can be found in North America and Central America, but Oklahoma is at the heart of its nesting range.
- The Scissor – tailed Flycatcher performs elaborate aerial displays known as “sky dances” during courtship.
- It has been observed that this graceful bird can catch prey while in flight.
- Despite its name, the Scissor – tailed Flycatcher does not catch flies like a typical flycatcher. Instead, it preys on a variety of insects.
- This avian species was chosen as the state bird of Oklahoma because of its unique characteristics and presence within the state’s borders.
Where to See the State Bird of Oklahoma
Some top spots for sighting Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in Oklahoma include:
- The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton
- The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve north of Pawhuska
- Black Mesa State Park near Kenton
- Great Salt Plains State Park north of Jet
- Fort Supply State Park northwest of Woodward
With a little patience, you’re likely to catch a glimpse of Oklahoma’s avian ambassador performing its dramatic aerial maneuvers across the prairies and open skies. The unique and elegant Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is a fitting symbol for the state’s natural heritage.
Significance of Scissor-tailed Flycatcher to Oklahoma
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, with its long forked tail and striking coloration, is a bird that captures attention and embodies the free spirit and vitality of Oklahoma. Diving deeper into its significance reveals layers of cultural, environmental, and symbolic importance.
- Symbolic Representation: Adopted as the state bird of Oklahoma in 1951, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher holds a unique position in the hearts of Oklahomans. Just as the bird graces the skies with its characteristic tail and agile maneuvers, Oklahoma too boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, culture, and history. It’s no wonder that the bird has become an emblem of the state’s natural allure and spirit.
- Ecological Indicator: The presence of the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher during breeding season is a testament to the health of Oklahoma’s ecosystems. Birds, especially those with specific habitat requirements, can serve as indicators of environmental quality. Their flourishing numbers suggest that local habitats are being preserved and maintained, allowing wildlife to thrive.
- Cultural and Recreational Significance: Birdwatching is a popular pastime in Oklahoma, and the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, being both distinctive and beautiful, is often on the checklist of many birdwatchers. Its presence adds value to the state’s recreational activities, encouraging both residents and tourists to engage in outdoor pursuits, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
- Inspiration and Pride: The distinctive appearance and behavior of the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher inspire artists, photographers, and writers. Its image graces various forms of artwork, from paintings to literature, and even merchandise. For Oklahomans, the bird is a source of pride, representing resilience, beauty, and the state’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
- Economic Impacts: Beyond its symbolic and cultural importance, the bird indirectly impacts Oklahoma’s economy. As a sought-after species among birdwatchers, its presence can drive eco-tourism. Tourists who come for birdwatching also spend on accommodation, food, and other local services, supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is the official state bird of Oklahoma. Chosen for its unique appearance and beneficial role in controlling harmful insects, this graceful bird with its long tail symbolizes Oklahoma’s wildlife.
Whether you see it soaring through the skies or on the state’s license plate, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher represents the beauty and diversity of Oklahoma’s avian species.
FAQs
Why was the scissortailed flycatcher chosen as Oklahoma’s state bird?
The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was likely chosen for its uniqueness and natural beauty. It has very distinctive extra-long, forked tail feathers that resemble an extra pair of scissors when spread in flight. This acrobatic bird is a familiar sight across Oklahoma’s open prairies and grasslands.
Does any other place have Scissor-tailed Flycatcher as their State Bird?
No! Though sometimes called Texas bird-of-paradise, only Oklahoma has designated this special bird as its official state symbol.
When and where do Scissor-tailed Flycatchers breed?
Scissor-tailed Flycatchers breed in Oklahoma and other southern states from March to June. The male performs elaborate courtship flights to attract a mate. The female builds a nest in a tree fork and lays 3-7 eggs. After hatching, both parents feed the nestlings.
Where are good places to see the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Oklahoma?
Some top spots include the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, Black Mesa State Park, Great Salt Plains State Park, and Fort Supply State Park. With some patience, you can often glimpse these birds across open prairies and grasslands.
Is the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher population threatened?
Yes, the population has declined by over 20% in recent decades due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. The species is classified as Near Threatened. Preserving grasslands and reducing pesticides can help conserve it.
How can I attract Scissor-tailed Flycatchers to my yard?
You can attract them by landscaping with native plants and trees. Avoid pesticide use. Place nest boxes on poles 10-20 feet high, with a 1.5 inch entrance hole. Provide open grassy areas and perches like fences or wires.