The Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher is Oklahoma's State Bird

The state bird for Oklahoma is the scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), a strikingly elegant bird renowned for its exceptionally long, forked tail and graceful aerial displays. This species was officially adopted as Oklahoma’s state bird in 1951, following a statewide vote by schoolchildren, making it not only a symbol of natural beauty but also a representation of public engagement in state identity. Often searched as 'what is the state bird for Oklahoma' or 'Oklahoma's official bird,' the scissor-tailed flycatcher stands out both biologically and culturally as a proud emblem of the Sooner State.

History and Selection of Oklahoma’s State Bird

The journey to selecting the scissor-tailed flycatcher as Oklahoma’s official bird began in the early 20th century, though it wasn’t until the mid-1900s that formal action was taken. Prior to 1951, Oklahoma did not have an officially designated state bird. In response to growing interest in state symbols and civic pride, the Oklahoma Legislature authorized a student-led initiative to choose one.

Schoolchildren across the state were invited to vote among several native bird species, including the northern mockingbird, meadowlark, and cardinal. The scissor-tailed flycatcher emerged as the overwhelming favorite. Its unique appearance, abundance in the region, and captivating flight patterns resonated with young voters and educators alike. On June 14, 1951, Governor Johnston Murray signed House Bill 166 into law, officially naming the scissor-tailed flycatcher as Oklahoma’s state bird.

This decision reflected more than just aesthetic appeal; it underscored a desire to honor a species deeply associated with the state’s open grasslands and prairie ecosystems. Unlike states that chose birds shared across multiple regions (such as the American robin or northern cardinal), Oklahoma’s choice emphasized regional distinctiveness.

Biological Profile: What Makes the Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher Unique?

The scissor-tailed flycatcher is a member of the tyrant flycatcher family (Tyrannidae) and is native to the south-central United States, with Oklahoma situated near the heart of its breeding range. Adults typically measure 10–14 inches in length, with nearly half of that length coming from their dramatically elongated tail feathers—especially prominent in males.

These birds display pale gray upperparts, salmon-pink flanks, and a white underside. Their black wings contrast sharply against their light bodies, and when in flight, their tails fan out like scissors opening and closing—hence the name. This tail serves both aerodynamic and courtship functions, allowing for agile mid-air maneuvers while hunting insects and playing a key role in mating displays.

Scissor-tailed flycatchers are insectivorous, feeding primarily on grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, and flying insects caught in midair. They often perch conspicuously on fences, power lines, or isolated trees, scanning for prey before launching into short, acrobatic flights. Their diet makes them beneficial to agriculture, helping control pest populations naturally.

Characteristic	Description
Scientific Name	Tyrannus forficatus
Length	10–14 inches (including tail)
Wingspan	14–15 inches
Habitat	Open grasslands, pastures, savannas, roadsides
Diet	Insects (grasshoppers, beetles, flies)
Breeding Season	May–August
Migratory Pattern	Neotropical migrant (winters in southern Mexico and Central America)

Symbolism and Cultural Significance in Oklahoma

Beyond its biological traits, the scissor-tailed flycatcher holds deep cultural significance in Oklahoma. It appears on state highway welcome signs, license plates, and promotional materials, serving as a visual ambassador for the state. Its image evokes themes of resilience, grace, and freedom—qualities many Oklahomans identify with.

The bird is also celebrated in art, literature, and music. The annual Scissortail Festival in Tulsa highlights local culture and sometimes features performances inspired by the bird’s flight. Additionally, Native American tribes within Oklahoma, such as the Chickasaw and Choctaw, have oral traditions that reference birds of the prairie, though specific legends about the scissor-tailed flycatcher vary.

In modern times, the bird has become a unifying symbol across urban and rural communities. Birdwatchers, conservationists, and educators use it as a focal point for environmental awareness campaigns. Its selection by schoolchildren over 70 years ago continues to inspire civic education projects today.

Where and When to See the Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher in Oklahoma

If you're planning to observe the state bird in its natural habitat, timing and location are crucial. The scissor-tailed flycatcher is a summer resident in Oklahoma, arriving in late March or early April and departing by September or October for its wintering grounds in southern Mexico and Central America.

Prime viewing areas include:

• Tallgrass Prairie Preserve (near Pawhuska): One of the largest protected tallgrass prairie remnants in North America, offering ideal open habitats.
• Chickasaw National Recreation Area (south-central OK): Combines woodlands and open fields, attracting nesting pairs.
• Optima Wildlife Management Area (Panhandle): Features shrub-steppe environments where flycatchers often nest.
• Rural roadsides and agricultural edges: Especially in central and southern counties during breeding season.

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for observation, as the birds are most active during cooler parts of the day. Look for them perched on fence posts or utility wires, scanning for insects. During courtship season (late April to June), males perform dramatic aerial displays, soaring high and diving with their tails spread wide—a sight often described as 'flying ballet.'

Conservation Status and Environmental Challenges

Currently, the scissor-tailed flycatcher is listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, this does not mean it faces no threats. Habitat loss due to conversion of native prairies into monoculture farms or urban developments poses a significant risk. Pesticide use can reduce insect availability, impacting food sources critical for raising young.

Climate change may also affect migration patterns and breeding success. Warmer springs could lead to earlier insect emergence, potentially causing a mismatch between peak food availability and chick-rearing periods. Drought conditions in Oklahoma, which are becoming more frequent, can degrade nesting habitats and reduce survival rates.

To support conservation efforts, individuals can participate in citizen science programs like eBird or Project FeederWatch, report sightings, and advocate for the preservation of open spaces. Landowners can help by maintaining hedgerows, avoiding pesticide overuse, and preserving scattered trees that serve as perches and nesting sites.

Common Misconceptions About Oklahoma’s State Bird

Despite its prominence, several misconceptions surround the scissor-tailed flycatcher:

• Misconception 1: It is a type of swallow. While they share similar flight behaviors and insect-based diets, swallows belong to a different family (Hirundinidae) and lack the flycatcher’s hooked bill and aggressive territorial behavior.
• Misconception 2: It sings melodious songs. In reality, the scissor-tailed flycatcher produces sharp, scratchy calls and mechanical-sounding notes, more functional than musical.
• Misconception 3: It stays in Oklahoma year-round. As a neotropical migrant, it spends only about six months in the state annually.
• Misconception 4: It builds elaborate nests. Nests are relatively simple, made of twigs, grass, and bark strips, usually placed in isolated trees or shrubs at low to moderate heights.

Tips for Birdwatchers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those interested in spotting or photographing the scissor-tailed flycatcher, consider these practical tips:

1. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens: Their preferred perching spots may be distant; optical aid helps appreciate plumage details and tail structure.
2. Listen for calls: Their distinctive 'kree-kree' or rattling sounds can help locate them before they’re visible.
3. Visit during breeding season: May through July offers the highest chance of seeing nesting behavior and courtship flights.
4. Respect private property: Many sightings occur on working ranches or farmland; always seek permission before entering non-public land.
5. Record your observations: Contribute to scientific databases by logging dates, locations, and behaviors via apps like iNaturalist or eBird.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Oklahoma adopt the scissor-tailed flycatcher as its state bird?

Oklahoma officially adopted the scissor-tailed flycatcher as its state bird on June 14, 1951.

Why was the scissor-tailed flycatcher chosen as Oklahoma’s state bird?

It was selected through a vote by schoolchildren due to its beauty, regional uniqueness, and prevalence across the state’s landscapes.

Is the scissor-tailed flycatcher found only in Oklahoma?

No, it breeds across the south-central U.S., including Texas, Kansas, and Louisiana, but Oklahoma is central to its range and proudly claims it as a symbol.

Can you keep a scissor-tailed flycatcher as a pet?

No. Like all native birds in the U.S., it is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to capture, possess, or harm them without a permit.

How can I help protect Oklahoma’s state bird?

You can support habitat conservation, minimize pesticide use, participate in bird monitoring programs, and educate others about its ecological importance.

In conclusion, the answer to 'what is the state bird for Oklahoma' is the scissor-tailed flycatcher—a bird that embodies the spirit of the Great Plains through its elegance, adaptability, and cultural resonance. Whether viewed through a biological, historical, or symbolic lens, this remarkable species continues to inspire admiration and stewardship across generations of Oklahomans and visitors alike.