In January, Florida House Bill 81 was introduced by Rep. Jim Mooney (R-Kay Largo), proposing to designate the flamingo as Florida’s official state bird and the scrub-jay as the official state songbird. They would replace the northern mockingbird, which has held the state bird title since 1927, according to NBC Miami.
The American flamingo is known for its vibrant pink color and is native to Florida. The scrub-jay is unique to the state and is recognizable for its distinctive blue and gray colors and scrubland habitat, found primarily in Central and Southern Florida, with some populations along the Gulf Coast.
A state songbird is an official avian symbol designated by a U.S. state, according to Birds in the Tree. A state bird serves as an official emblem representing the unique culture and heritage of a state. The flamingo fits that role, as Florida is known as the Sunshine State with warm, tropical-like weather.
Flamingos were hunted in the late 1800s and early 1900s, leading to their decline. The Florida scrub-jay population has also suffered due to ongoing development, according to Birdful.
Mooney has said that HB 81 is not just about the birds but also about protecting Florida’s environment.
“The bill goes beyond the birds. It also aims to preserve Florida’s habitat,” Mooney said. He emphasized his desire to bring back flamingos and scrub-jays in abundance and raise awareness about conservation efforts.
According to Florida Audubon, birders counted more than 100 flamingos across the state in 2024. In 2023, Hurricane Idalia pushed groups of flamingos from the Caribbean back to Florida, according to Source Photo Tours. Their resurgence has inspired Mooney and other state officials to push for legislative action to protect them and strengthen their presence in the state’s identity.
The proposed change has sparked discussion among bird enthusiasts, conservationists and lawmakers. Supporters of HB 81 argue that the American flamingo is a more fitting representation of Florida’s tropical environment and tourism-driven culture. Many Florida theme parks such as Disney World, Busch Gardens and Volcano Bay display flamingos throughout their parks, further promoting the birds’ tropical feel.They also signal to tourist goers they are on vacation. Other states are also home to flamingos, and to have the ability to see the birds at parks helps add that utopia-like feel people get while on vacation. Meanwhile, the Florida scrub-jay’s designation as the state songbird highlights the importance of preserving the state’s unique ecosystems.
Opponents of the house bill however, believe that the northern mockingbird should retain its title due to its deep-rooted history in Florida and its widespread presence across the state.
The debate has gained momentum as both bills move through legislative committees.
If passed, HB 81 would take effect on July 1. A companion bill in the Senate, SB 880, proposes similar language, designating the flamingo as the state bird and the scrub-jay as the official state songbird.