The Official Oklahoma State Bird

Flycatcher

The official Oklahoma state bird is the Western Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus). This species belongs to the family Tyrannidae, which includes all the tyrant flycatchers. The Western Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is most commonly found in the southern United States, from Texas to Oklahoma and Arkansas.

The Western Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was named the state bird of Oklahoma in 1951, in recognition of its beauty, its resilience, and its importance to the state's ecology. The bird is known for its long, scissor-like tail and its bright, vibrant colors. It is a migratory species, and it plays an important role in Oklahoma’s ecosystems. It is a predatory species, meaning it helps to keep insect populations in check. It is also an important pollinator, helping to spread the pollen of many different plants.

The Western Scissor-tailed Flycatcher also holds an important cultural significance to Oklahoma. The bird has been a part of Oklahoma’s landscape for many generations, and its presence is a reminder of the state’s natural beauty. The bird’s presence in Oklahoma is also a reminder of its resilience, as the species has made a comeback despite being threatened by habitat loss and other environmental factors.

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