What is the State Bird of Oklahoma?

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Is The State Bird Of OklahomaOKLAHOMA - The state bird of Oklahoma is a beautiful bird called the scissor-tailed flycatcher.  This species feeds on insects that cause harm to crops. While the population of this species is on the decline, it is still highly valued for its beautiful appearance. This bird is easily recognizable thanks to its striking coloration and long, split tail. It typically lives in areas with many trees.


What is the State Bird of Oklahoma?
Photo: Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Is The State Bird Of Oklahoma


The Scissor-tailed flycatcher is the state bird of Oklahoma.  This bird has a long tail and a soft gray body. The male has a black and white tail, while the female has a shorter tail. It feeds primarily on insects and has an aggressive feeding behavior. It weighs 1.3 to two ounces and has a 4.5 to 4.9-inch wingspan.

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was officially named the state bird of Oklahoma on May 26, 1951. The state bird is distinguished by its long tail and recognizable forked tail. Its gray plumage is marked with a white underbelly and salmon pink or red specks on its wings. Both male and female flycatchers are similar in appearance, but females are lighter in color and have more prominent, contrasting coloration.



As the state bird of Oklahoma, the scissor-tailed flycatcher has long been an iconic bird of the state. Having been designated as the state bird in 1951, it has enjoyed the status of being its state bird for 70 years. The bird is also known as the swallow-tailed flycatcher and Texas bird-of-paradise.