What Is GA State Bird? The Brown Thrasher

The Georgia state bird is the brown thrasher (scientific name: Toxostoma rufum). This richly colored, melodious songbird was officially designated as the state bird of Georgia in 1970, replacing the northern mockingbird. Known for its distinctive reddish-brown plumage, bold streaking on the chest, and striking yellow eyes, the brown thrasher holds both biological significance and cultural symbolism throughout the state. As a key part of Georgia’s natural heritage, the brown thrasher represents resilience, regional identity, and the importance of native wildlife conservation. Understanding what is GA state bird not only answers a common educational question but also opens the door to deeper appreciation of local ecosystems and avian biodiversity in the southeastern United States.

History and Official Designation of the Brown Thrasher

The journey to selecting the brown thrasher as Georgia’s official state bird began long before its formal adoption in 1970. Prior to this decision, the northern mockingbird held the title since 1930. However, growing interest in recognizing species unique to or especially abundant within Georgia led to renewed discussions among educators, ornithologists, and lawmakers.

In 1969, students across Georgia participated in a statewide campaign organized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and various school districts to advocate for a more regionally representative bird. The brown thrasher emerged as a popular choice due to its prevalence throughout the state, its powerful and varied vocalizations, and its role in local folklore.

The legislative process culminated in House Bill No. 728, which passed during the 1970 session of the Georgia General Assembly. Governor Lester Maddox signed the bill into law, officially naming the brown thrasher as the state bird. This change reflected a broader trend in the mid-20th century where U.S. states reevaluated their symbols to better align with ecological identity and public sentiment.

Biological Profile of the Brown Thrasher

The brown thrasher belongs to the family Mimidae, which includes mockingbirds and catbirds—species known for their complex songs and mimicry abilities. It is one of over 40 species in the genus Toxostoma, primarily found in North America.

Physical Characteristics:

• Length: Approximately 9.25–11.75 inches (23.5–30 cm)
• Wingspan: Around 11.5 inches (29 cm)
• Weight: 2.1–3.1 oz (60–88 g)
• Plumage: Rich rufous-brown upperparts, white underparts with heavy dark streaking, bright yellow eyes, and a long, curved bill ideal for foraging.

Habitat and Range: The brown thrasher is commonly found in dense thickets, woodland edges, suburban gardens, and overgrown fields. Its breeding range spans much of the eastern and central United States, from southern Canada down through Florida and west to Texas. Georgia lies near the heart of its year-round distribution, making it a familiar sight across both rural and urban landscapes.

Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on insects (beetles, ants, caterpillars), spiders, snails, berries, seeds, and occasionally small amphibians. They use their strong, slightly curved bills to sweep aside leaf litter and dig in soil—a behavior often observed in backyard settings.

Vocal Behavior and Song Complexity

One of the most remarkable traits of the brown thrasher is its extraordinary singing ability. Males are especially vocal during the breeding season (March through July), using song to establish territory and attract mates.

Studies have shown that a single male brown thrasher can possess a repertoire of over 1,100 different song phrases, far exceeding that of most other North American songbirds. For comparison, the northern mockingbird typically sings around 200 distinct phrases.

Their songs consist of short musical phrases repeated twice (“whit-whee, whit-whee”) before moving to a new pattern—an identifying feature that distinguishes them from the endlessly variable mockingbird. These vocalizations are often heard at dawn and dusk, echoing through forests and backyards alike.

Feature	Brown Thrasher	Northern Mockingbird
State Bird of Georgia?	Yes (since 1970)	No (previously held title until 1970)
Song Phrases	Over 1,100	Average 200
Repetition Pattern	Each phrase repeated twice	Repeated 3–6 times
Eyes	Yellow	White or pale yellow
Underpart Markings	Heavy dark streaks	Faint gray streaks

Cultural and Symbolic Significance in Georgia

Beyond its biological attributes, the brown thrasher carries symbolic weight in Georgia’s cultural landscape. While not tied to Native American mythology as prominently as some birds like the eagle or raven, the thrasher has come to represent perseverance, adaptability, and the beauty of understated nature.

In literature and poetry, the brown thrasher's song is sometimes described as soulful or introspective—qualities that resonate with Southern literary traditions. Its preference for hidden, brushy habitats mirrors themes of quiet strength and resilience, often celebrated in regional storytelling.

Schools and universities across Georgia incorporate the brown thrasher into their identities. Notably, Georgia Tech adopted the brown thrasher—affectionately called the “Yellow Jacket” despite being unrelated to the insect—as its official mascot. Though colloquially referred to as the Yellow Jackets, the athletic teams' imagery and branding frequently feature stylized representations of the bird, reinforcing its status as a symbol of pride and tenacity.

How to Spot and Identify the Brown Thrasher in the Wild

For aspiring birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, spotting a brown thrasher in Georgia is both achievable and rewarding. Here are practical tips for identification and observation:

• Listen for the Song: Early morning hours offer the best chance to hear males singing from treetops or shrubs. Remember: two repetitions per phrase is a telltale sign.
• Look in the Right Habitats: Focus on areas with dense underbrush, hedgerows, forest edges, and overgrown yards. Avoid open lawns unless adjacent to thick cover.
• Watch for Foraging Behavior: Brown thrashers often hop along the ground, using rapid side-to-side motions of their bill to uncover insects beneath leaves.
• Note Physical Features: Compare against similar species. Unlike the mockingbird, the brown thrasher lacks white wing patches and has heavier breast streaking and a longer, curved beak.

Binoculars with 8x magnification and a field guide such as The Sibley Guide to Birds or apps like Merlin Bird ID can greatly enhance your success rate.

Conservation Status and Environmental Challenges

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the brown thrasher is currently listed as Least Concern. However, population trends indicate a gradual decline across parts of its range, including Georgia, due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and predation by domestic cats.

The North American Breeding Bird Survey shows a moderate annual decrease of about 1–2% since the 1960s. Urban development and the removal of native shrublands reduce nesting and foraging opportunities. Climate change may also affect migration timing and food availability in coming decades.

To support brown thrasher populations, conservationists recommend:

• Preserving native vegetation and creating brush piles in residential areas.
• Reducing outdoor cat access to minimize predation.
• Limiting pesticide usage to protect insect prey bases.
• Participating in citizen science projects like eBird or Project FeederWatch to help track population changes.

Common Misconceptions About the GA State Bird

Despite its official status, several misconceptions persist about what is GA state bird:

• Misconception 1: Many people believe the northern mockingbird is still the state bird. In fact, while it remains the state bird of five other states (including Tennessee and Arkansas), Georgia made the switch in 1970.
• Misconception 2: Some assume the brown thrasher is rare or elusive. While shy and often hidden in foliage, it is relatively common across Georgia, especially in spring and summer.
• Misconception 3: Due to its name, some confuse the brown thrasher with aggressive behavior. The term “thrasher” refers to its foraging style—not temperament. It is generally non-confrontational toward humans.

Why Georgia Chose the Brown Thrasher Over Other Candidates

During the selection process, several birds were considered alternatives to the mockingbird, including the northern cardinal and the American goldfinch. Ultimately, the brown thrasher won favor because:

• It is a permanent resident in most of Georgia, unlike migratory species.
• Its presence in diverse habitats makes it accessible to all residents, regardless of location.
• Its impressive vocal repertoire showcases avian intelligence and complexity.
• It had strong grassroots support from students and educators who emphasized local pride and ecological relevance.

This democratic approach to choosing a state symbol highlights how civic engagement can shape environmental awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the scientific name of the GA state bird?

The scientific name of the Georgia state bird is Toxostoma rufum.

When did the brown thrasher become Georgia’s state bird?

The brown thrasher was officially named the state bird of Georgia in 1970.

Is the brown thrasher the same as a mockingbird?

No, though they are related and share similar behaviors, the brown thrasher has a smaller song repertoire than the mockingbird, repeats each phrase only twice, and displays different physical features such as heavier streaking and a curved bill.

Can you keep a brown thrasher as a pet?

No. Like all native North American birds, the brown thrasher is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to capture, harm, or keep one without federal permits.

Where can I see a brown thrasher in Georgia?

You can observe brown thrashers in wooded suburbs, parks with dense shrubbery, nature preserves, and rural hedgerows. Try visiting protected areas like the Okefenokee Swamp, Chattahoochee National Forest, or local Audubon Society sanctuaries.