Florida state bird scrub jay. Jan 3, 2025 · Rep.

Florida state bird scrub jay. This unique ecosystem once covered much of the Florida peninsula, but development and habitat loss have caused the jay’s numbers to plummet dramatically in recent decades. From the hills of Tallahassee, the people shout with glee, “The Florida scrub jay is the new state bird!” If only this were Jan 6, 2025 · A state representative wants to replace Florida's state bird, despite his last attempt to replace it failing less than one year ago. The mockingbird has a stable population in Florida and is Jul 21, 2023 · The Florida scrub jay is a beautiful blue and silver bird that inhabits the unique scrub habitat of Florida’s ancient dunes— and is found nowhere else in the world. Dec 6, 2022 · He and fellow birds of a feather say the Florida scrub jay deserves the honorific. This social bird forms extended family groups: the young from previous years help their parents at subsequent nests until Sep 16, 2025 · Since then, scrub jay proponents have said their bird's behavior reflects Florida's family values by living in close-knit communities. Known for its striking blue plumage and unique behaviors, this species is undoubtedly one of the most interesting birds in North America. The Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens ) is one of the species of scrub jay native to North America. Known Oct 15, 2008 · The bird’s population has waned ever since development began to boom in the early 20th century. As efforts to change the state bird have met a formidable foe - former National Rifle Association president Marion Hammer. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, filed legislation Friday proposing to replace the northern mockingbird with the American flamingo. Florida’s official avian has been the mockingbird since 1927, but it’s not a state native. Jan 8, 2025 · By Dustin Angell From the beaches to the prairies. Audubon Florida coordinates the Jay Watch community science program statewide. Apr 16, 2025 · Lawmakers are considering replacing it with two other native birds - the flamingo and the Florida scrub jay. . Now in 2025, more than a hundred years after the last Florida-born flamingo was killed off, we can make amends, taking an important step toward ensuring that these wild and strange creatures have a future here. Apr 30, 2025 · State lawmakers resist attempts to dethrone Florida's mockingbird as state bird for fourth year, despite new proposals for the flamingo and scrub jay. The birds never migrate and are often found living as The Florida scrub-jay is the only bird endemic (found only) to Florida. The Northern Mockingbird is not only found throughout most of the United States, it is the state bird of several states. Florida scrub jays nurture Jan 7, 2025 · Florida lawmakers could again consider replacing the mockingbird with the flamingo as the state bird. The mockingbird has a stable population in Florida and is Jan 5, 2023 · Once again, a few people are attempting to change state bird from the mockingbird to the scrub-jay. The new proposal, filed by Rep. The bill (HB 81) also seeks to designate the Florida scrub jay as the state’s official Jun 13, 2025 · The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a captivating bird species endemic to the scrub habitats of Florida. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada filed a proposal (HB 81) for the 2025 legislative session to make the American flamingo the official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay the official Mar 27, 2025 · The Florida Scrub Jay is the state’s only endemic bird. Jan 8, 2025 · Florida lawmakers could again consider replacing the mockingbird as the state bird. We wonder the same thing. 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. It is known to have been present in Florida as a distinct species for at least 2 million years, and Jan 4, 2025 · The debate over Florida’s state bird could soon return to the forefront as Rep. If passed, the American flamingo would replace the northern mockingbird as Jun 16, 2025 · Designation of the State Birds: Designates American flamingo as official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; provides that such designation supersedes designation of mockingbird as official Florida state bird. Scrub-Jays are mainly blue on the back and lighter underneath. Mar 2, 2025 · In January, Florida House Bill 81 was introduced by Rep. Similar bills in recent years have failed to pass, despite calls for a bird unique to Florida, as five other states also recognize the mockingbird. If passed this session, it would mean finally knocking out the mockingbird, first named state bird in 1927. 5 – 2. Apr 28, 2025 · It is asking the state to designate the American Flamingo as the official state bird, replacing the northern Mockingbird and the state songbird as the Florida scrub-jay. The round-headed, blue and gray Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species that lives exclusively in Florida, where it occurs in patches of low-growing scrub oak in sandy soils. Knowing where to find Florida Scrub-Jays is key for birders hoping to spot this Aug 22, 2019 · The round-headed, blue and gray Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species that lives exclusively in Florida, where it occurs in patches of low-growing scrub oak in sandy soils. It inhabits scrub oak habitats, which consist of scrubby flatwoods, sand pine scrub, rosemary scrub and coastal scrub. Dec 5, 2022 · The Florida scrub-jay is a loyal and social Florida native. Apr 25, 2025 · In its place, the measures proposed two replacements: the American flamingo, which would have become Florida’s official state bird; and the blue-and-gray Florida scrub-jay, the only species of Jan 28, 2025 · The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species found exclusively in the state of Florida and was listed as a Federally Threatened species in 1987 because its population had dropped dramatically due to habitat loss. Apr 11, 2025 · And as the Sunshine State’s official songbird, the blue-and-gray Florida scrub-jay — the only species of bird endemic to Florida — would get the nod. Oct 20, 2023 · The threatened Florida Scrub-Jay would replace the Northern Mockingbird as Florida’s official state bird if a new bill filed in the legislature becomes law. The bill also would name the Florida scrub jay as the official state songbird. May 2, 2025 · I was pleased this week to learn the mockingbird will remain our state bird ― as it has since 1927 ― despite efforts from lawmakers lobbying for the flamingo or scrub jay. Mar 8, 2024 · Designation of the State Bird; Designating the Florida scrub-jay as the official state bird; specifying that the act supersedes designation of the mockingbird as the state bird, etc. Jan 3, 2025 · Mooney on Friday filed legislation (HB 81) for the 2025 legislative session to make the American flamingo the official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay the official state songbird. It perches tall with its long tail hanging down or boldly hops on the ground burying acorns. Since then, scrub jay proponents have said their bird's behavior reflects Florida's family values by living in close-knit communities. The loss of sandy, scrubby habitat that is managed with frequent fire is one reason why scrub-jay numbers are declining. 5, 2025. It is the only species of bird endemic to the U. Apr 15, 2025 · Twin bills in the state Senate and House are proposing that the American flamingo and the Florida scrub jay take the title of state bird. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, on Friday filed a proposal (HB 81) that would lead to the flamingo replacing the Jan 3, 2025 · Rep. They would replace the northern mockingbird, which has held the state bird title since 1927, accor The Florida Scrub Jay is a beautiful bird, about the size of a Blue Jay and is extremely friendly. state of Florida and one of only 15 species endemic to the continental United States. It’s the state’s only endemic bird, which means the Florida scrub-jay is found nowhere else, and its need for a specific habitat is one reason why scrub-jay numbers are declining. Sen. Following the race, the park will host the 2016 Florida Scrub-Jay Festival with guided walks, food and live music. Of course they should. Jan 15, 2025 · Designation of the State Birds: Designates American flamingo as official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; provides that such designation supersedes designation of mockingbird as official Florida state bird. Apr 20, 2010 · The Florida Scrub-Jay is the state's only endemic bird—and it's endangered. James Mooney Jr. The scrub Apr 14, 2025 · Florida lawmakers are considering bills to replace the mockingbird with the flamingo as the state bird and the scrub-jay as the state songbird. It is one of only 15 bird species endemic to the continental United States. Reps. Sep 12, 2025 · In addition, the bill would set up the Florida scrub-jay as the state’s official songbird, which would be a completely new designation. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, filed a proposal that would lead to the flamingo replacing the mockingbird, which has been the state’s bird since 1927. This elegant photographic print features the rare and enchanting Florida Scrub Jay, a unique bird species found exclusively in the Sunshine State. So why isn’t the Florida scrub jay our State Bird? Good question. The bird on Coulon’s hand was one of fewer than 8,000 Florida Scrub-Jays remaining in the world. The scrub jay has very specific ecosystem requirements, and can be found almost exclusively in one type of habitat: the Florida scrub. We know from Jay Watch that there is a lot of variation in how jay populations are doing at different sites. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, on Friday filed a proposal (HB 81) that would lead to the flamingo replacing the Dec 4, 2024 · Populations of the Florida scrub-jay, the only bird found solely in the state, have been declining significantly since researchers began studying them in 1969 due to habitat loss from rapid 5 days ago · 1. Thanks to scrub restoration efforts at Rock Springs Run State Reserve since the early 2000s, the Mar 24, 2025 · I. Similar Jan 3, 2025 · Filed Friday by Republican Rep. Apr 4, 2025 · A group of high school and college students came to Tallahassee to advocate for their favorite bird and came away with a win. It is a friendly and curious bird, and when feeling no threat, almost tame. Aug 15, 2025 · Discover the Florida Scrub Jay, a unique blue and gray bird endemic to Florida, battling habitat loss through conservation efforts. Feb 8, 2024 · The Florida scrub jay is the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. Jan 28, 2025 · The Florida scrub-jay is more than just a bird; it is a vital part of the state’s natural heritage and a symbol of its unique biodiversity. com The Florida scrub-jay is the state’s only endemic bird, which means it is found nowhere else, and it's the only bird species that requires a sandy, scrubby habitat to survive. It's bid to be state bird was shot down by a gun lobbyist's concerns over property rights Where To See Florida Scrub JaysMatanzas National Monument Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Canaveral National Seashore. Florida scrub-jay Found in very specific scrub habitats with smaller trees, the Florida scrub-jay is only found in Florida, its population in decline and severely limited by lack of habitat. It weighs about 1. Many Jan 11, 2025 · "Whispered Elegance in the Florida Wild" is a captivating piece of fine art photography that brings the beauty of Florida wildlife into stunning focus. With Florida Park Service management of a 446-acre parcel of land, the population has grown from 25 birds in 2008 to more than 100 birds in 2019. The Florida scrub jay, Florida’s only unique bird species, continues to wait its turn but, year after year, its chances die on the Senate floor. That’s what Biologist Laurie Dolan found with a population of Florida scrub-jays along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. 5 days ago · 1. Jul 13, 2015 · You can voice your support for naming the Florida Scrub-Jay as our official state bird by contacting your Florida legislators before January 11th start of the 2022 legislative session to let them know you support SB 378 and HB 207, and encouraging friends and family to do the same. The round-headed, blue and gray Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species that lives exclusively in Florida, where it occurs in patches of low-growing scrub oak in sandy soils. The success of the Jay Watch program, and the program’s Dec 23, 2024 · The Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a true Florida native, found nowhere else in the world. Jim Mooney, will be considered Jan 3, 2025 · Florida lawmakers could again consider replacing the mockingbird as the state bird. However, multiple state agencies have been restoring this habitat and maintaining protection for these birds. They are federally designated as a threatened species. Effective Date: Upon becoming a law Last Action: 3/8/2024 Senate - Died in Environment and Natural Resources Bill Text: Web Page | PDF Senate Committee References: Mar 26, 2025 · Florida scrub jays are the only species of bird that are endemic to Florida. Nov 20, 2023 · The Florida scrub jay is endemic to the central highlands. Apr 6, 2020 · According to historical records, Florida Scrub-Jays have never lived anywhere outside Florida. From the towns and the cities. Sep 16, 2025 · Since then, scrub jay proponents have said their bird's behavior reflects Florida's family values by living in close-knit communities. This social bird forms extended family groups: the young from previous years help their parents at subsequent nests until May 27, 2020 · Florida scrub-jays are the only bird endemic to Florida. Jan 6, 2025 · The South Florida representative wants to declare two new state birds instead: The American Flamingo and the scrub-jay. Perched gracefully on a branch, the bird's delicate blue and gray plumage is meticulously The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird endemic to Florida (ie, found only in Florida). The Scrub-Jay is a threatened species in Florida due to habitat loss from development and fragmentation. 0 ounces. The flamingo is seen as a unique symbol of Florida Apr 27, 2025 · Florida lawmakers are considering replacing the mockingbird as the state bird with the flamingo and scrub-jay. As their name suggests, they inhabit scrub habitat, which is composed of low-growing oaks, rosemary, and palmettos. , R-Miami, proposed for the Jan 4, 2025 · The Brief Florida lawmakers may revisit a proposal to replace the mockingbird, the state bird since 1927, with the flamingo, and designate the Florida scrub jay as the state songbird. Rock Springs Run Reserve is home to the Florida Scrub-Jay The Florida scrub-jay is the state’s only endemic bird, which means it can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Unfortunately, this habitat is rapidly The Florida Scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is the only bird species unique to Florida and they do not migrate. The festival is an annual event celebrating the state’s unique bird. It’s also the state bird for four other states: Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. The Florida scrub jay is the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. On the House side, Rep. The northern mockingbird is the state bird of five (southern) states: Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas and A bill to make the flamingo the Florida state bird and scrub-jay the state songbird could finally make that happen. They are members of the New World Jay family, and those in the United States mainly live in the west, except the Florida Scrub-Jay. Sep 4, 2025 · Designation of the State Birds: Designates American flamingo as official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; provides that such designation supersedes designation of mockingbird as official Florida state bird. Federally Threatened under the U. The Florida Scrub-Jay The Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens ) is one of the species of scrub jay native to North America. As the only bird species found exclusively in Florida, it holds a sp Jan 5, 2025 · Rep. May 3, 2025 · Designation of the State Birds: Designates American flamingo as official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; provides that such designation supersedes designation of mockingbird as official Florida state bird. Nov 27, 2023 · The effort to coronate the Florida scrub-jay as the official state bird — and potentially knock the northern mockingbird off its official perch — has begun again. This unique blue and gray colored bird lives in scrub oak habitats that are characterized by sandy soils and scattered scrubby oaks. S Fish and Wildlife Service. This social bird forms extended family groups: the young from previous years help their parents at subsequent nests until The Florida scrub jay is gregarious, highly intelligent, and also a true native…one of Florida’s only endemic birds. Because of this, it is keenly sought by birders. The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a species unlike any other in the world. Tina Polsky, a Democrat from Aug 18, 2025 · The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a true gem of the state, being the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. Sep 5, 2025 · He just refiled legislation (HB 11) to make the change, establishing the American flamingo as Florida’s state bird and the blue-and-gray scrub-jay as the state’s official songbird. This social bird forms extended family groups: the young from previous years help their parents at subsequent nests until Mar 22, 2023 · The Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), as its name suggests, is only found in Florida. Known for its striking blue and gray plumage and charismatic behavior, this bird has captured the interest of ornithologists and conservationists alike. Under Polsky’s bill, the young people would be surveyed about the mockingbird, the American osprey, the Florida scrub jay, the American The Florida Scrub-Jay is our state’s only endemic bird species, found nowhere else in the world. The oldest Florida Scrub Jay recorded was at least 15 years old when it was captured and released during a banding operation in Florida in the 1990s. Feb 25, 2025 · The FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) has just completed a statewide update of Florida ScrubJay population numbers on public and private lands managed for conservation. Conservationists are concerned not enough is being done to protect its habitat. Rather, the Florida scrub-jay typically stays within a four- to six-mile territory throughout its life. People often bring peanuts and human food to entice the birds to eat out of their hands. Dec 27, 2024 · The Florida Scrub-Jay, Florida’s only unique bird species, continues to wait its turn but, year after year, its chances die on the Senate floor. This article will help you learn about the Florida Scrub Jay and bird watching. The Florida Scrub-Jay is approximately 9 – 11 inches long. From the hills of Tallahassee, the people shout with glee, “The Florida scrub jay is the new state bird!” If only this were true. We train and support volunteers to conduct scientific surveys that measure annual nesting success and count the total number of Florida Scrub-Jays at more than 45 sites in 19 counties. Jim Mooney of the Florida Keys, his bill would replace Florida's current state bird, the mockingbird, with the flamingo and make the three-ounce blue-and-gray scrub jay the official state songbird. It has a crest of feathers on its head and a distinct white eyebrow. This is the eighth attempt in 25 years to replace the mockingbird. Stand in one place long enough and you have a good chance of them sitting on your head! This friendly habit could, however, be the downfall of this species. Summary: SB 880 designates the American flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) as the official Florida state bird and the Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) as the official Florida state songbird. The effects of increased development and agriculture have reduced the population of scrub-jays. Apr 23, 2023 · The Florida Scrub-Jay is a fascinating bird that is found only in Florida. This amazing bird is endangered and resides exclusively in Florida. You Can Help the Florida Scrub-Jay Provide habitat for scrub-jays by planting and protecting scrub patches on your property. Jan 8, 2025 · A bill to make the flamingo the Florida state bird and scrub-jay the state songbird could finally make that happen. Feb 19, 2024 · The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. Nov 5, 2021 · Suggestions for a new state bird are all over the map, but four main contenders have emerged: the Florida scrub jay, flamingo, osprey and roseate spoonbill. The Florida Museum of Natural History says there are less than 10,000 left in the state. Apr 14, 2025 · Meanwhile, the Florida scrub-jay, a species native to the state known for its distinctive blue coloring and melodious calls, is designated as the official state songbird. What is the Florida scrub jay? The Florida scrub jay is the only native bird species to spend its entire life cycle in the state of Florida. Its name is appropriate, for it lives only in Florida scrub, areas of short scrubby oaks growing on sandy soil. Nov 13, 2023 · The Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is the only bird species found exclusively in Florida. Florida feud reignites over state bird: Mockingbird or flamingo or scrub jay? Two Republican House members have signaled they are prepared to continue one of the statehouse’s longest running political feuds. The only bird species that requires a sandy, scrubby habitat to survive is the Florida scrub-jay. Jun 16, 2025 · SB 880: Designation of the State Birds GENERAL BILL by Garcia Designation of the State Birds; Designating the American flamingo as the official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; providing that such designations supersede the designation of the mockingbird as the official Florida state bird, etc. While it's been considered to dethrone the mockingbird as the official state bird, it's disappearing. The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species endemic to Florida and is a habitat specialist, found only in scrubby, sandy oak woodlands and ancient dunes in coastal and central areas of the state. Members of the Wildlife Conservation Club at Seminole High School urged a Senate committee recently to make the Florida Scrub-Jay the state bird. Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, on Friday filed a proposal (HB 81) that would lead to the flamingo replacing the Mar 24, 2025 · In Florida, Threatened Jays Suffer Costs of Warming Winters Florida Scrub-Jays are working harder, but producing fewer chicks, as climate change alters the Sunshine State. Scrub-jays mate for life, and raise their young in cooperative family groups consisting of a breeding pair and their offspring. S. The American flamingo, known for its vibrant pink feathers and distinctive long legs, is a symbol of the state's coastal regions, while the Florida scrub-jay, a blue-hued bird native to the state, represents the importance of conservation efforts in Florida's ecosystems. And although there are scrub-jays in the Western United States, they are genetically distinct from our Florida Scrub-Jay, which is listed as threatened by the state of Florida and by the U. This species is one of the few remaining endemic North American birds that has been under scrutiny due to its restricted range, vulnerable population, and the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at its preservation. | Kat Tran, Fresh Take Florida The mockingbird has a stable population in Florida and is commonly found throughout the country. This striking bird with vibrant blue feathers and a grayish back is more than just a pretty face—it’s an important indicator of the health of Florida’s unique scrub ecosystems. Mar 26, 2025 · The Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources advanced a bill 8-0 on Tuesday that would designate the American Flamingo as Florida's official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird. This friendly, intelligent bird lives in oak scrub habitat and is listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Jan 28, 2025 · The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species found exclusively in the state of Florida and was listed as a federally threatened species in 1987 because its population had dropped dramatically due to habitat loss. For decades, lawmakers have tried to make the Florida scrub jay the state bird. Everyone knows that. Jan 16, 2025 · For more than 25 years, the debate has gone on. Now, about 5 percent of the state’s original scrub habitat remains, and jay numbers have fallen to less than 10 percent of what they once were. Jan 5, 2025 · On Friday, Rep. Mark Robertson I agree! The Florida Scrub-Jay is the only species endemic to Florida, while the Northern Mockingbird is already the state bird of several other Jun 16, 2025 · Designation of the State Birds; Designates American flamingo as official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird; provides that such designation supersedes designation of mockingbird as official Florida state bird. Jan 28, 2025 · “Targeting Charlotte County’s proactive effort to protect the Florida scrub jay’s habitat from uncontrolled growth is a threat to all of Florida’s unique species from the Key deer, only found in the Florida Keys, to the Florida torreya, a critically endangered tree found in the Apalachicola region. Florida scrub-jay, photographed at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound, Martin County, in May 2016. Apr 30, 2025 · A scrub jay perches on a palm tree branch in Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound on Feb. By Kathi Borgmann March 24, 2025 Aug 22, 2019 · <p>The round-headed, blue and gray Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species that lives exclusively in Florida, where it occurs in patches of low-growing scrub oak in sandy soils. Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park is home to these creatures, allowing them to thrive in their preferred habitat. Photo by Reed Bowman. With all due respect to the northern mockingbird, this should be our state bird: Aphelocoma coerulescen, the Florida scrub-jay. Since then, several studies have been done about these birds and their habits. If you build it, they will come. Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered Species Act in 1987, the state’s population of Florida Scrub-Jays is estimated to have declined by 90% since the early 1800s. Not only is this wildlife preserve home to the elusive Florida scrub jay, but it features an educational nature center, hiking paths, and more. Rep. The estimated historical population of 40,000 jays Jul 5, 2024 · The citizen science program uses bird-loving volunteers around the state to tally numbers of the threatened scrub jay on public lands, including in Manatee County and Southwest Florida. This social bird forms extended family groups: the young from previous years help their parents at subsequent nests until Jan 4, 2025 · The Brief Florida lawmakers may revisit a proposal to replace the mockingbird, the state bird since 1927, with the flamingo, and designate the Florida scrub jay as the state songbird. Tina Polsky of Boca Jan 14, 2025 · The mockingbird has been the state’s bird since 1927. Sep 16, 2025 · Florida feud reignites over state bird: Mockingbird or flamingo or scrub jay? The latest bill marks the ninth attempt in 28 years to change the state's official bird. Jan 19, 2025 · From the beaches to the prairies. Chip LaMarca, R-Lighthouse Point, and Jim Mooney, R-Islamorada, have filed a Sign the petition and help us make the Florida Scrub Jay become the official state bird of Florida. The scrub jay would also get a designation. ~ Carol Bailey-White, President The Florida scrub jay is endemic to the state of Florida, making it the only bird species entirely restricted to this region. The Florida scrub jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens [A]) is one of the species of scrub jay native to North America. Jan 3, 2025 · Florida lawmakers could again consider replacing the mockingbird as the state bird. They are found on some of Florida’s highest and driest parts, ancient sandy ridges running down the middle of the state, old sand dunes along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and sandy deposits along interior rivers. Find out where to see them and how to add them to your birding life list. The bill also would name the Florida scrub The round-headed, blue and gray Florida Scrub-Jay is the only bird species that lives exclusively in Florida, where it occurs in patches of low-growing scrub oak in sandy soils. Medium-sized at about 11 inches long with a wingspan near 13 inches, this jay has soft blue wings, tail, and head contrasted with a gray back and belly. Oct 16, 2023 · A bill filed in the Florida Senate last week aims to change the state bird from the mockingbird to the Florida scrub-jay. The vibrant Florida Scrub-Jay is one of Florida's endemic bird species. And the committee’s vote Protecting Florida Scrub-Jays, our state's only endemic bird species. Apr 30, 2025 · She has previously sponsored bills to nominate the blue-and-gray Florida scrub jay, exclusively native to Florida, as the state bird. They have no legitimate or justifiable reason for making the change. Jan 8, 2025 · Once again, Florida lawmakers are debating whether to replace the northern mockingbird with the Florida scrub-jay as the official state bird. This habitat occurs mostly as isolated pockets, and the jays rarely wander away from their own little patch of scrub, making them extremely sedentary. A Florida Scrub Jay is a fun bird to identify while bird watching. Increasingly rare, intact scrub habitat in coastal areas and interior to the Florida peninsula is the only home that these flashy, intelligent birds know. May 5, 2025 · The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a strikingly beautiful bird endemic to the scrubby ecosystems of Florida, primarily in the peninsular regions of the state. Mooney on Friday filed legislation (HB 81) for the 2025 legislative session to make the American flamingo the official state bird and the Florida scrub-jay the official state songbird. The Florida Scrub-Jay is a medium-sized bird with a blue-gray back, wings, and tail, and a lighter underbelly. Basic Description The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) belongs to the Corvidae family, which also includes crows and ravens. Lake Placid Archbold Biological Station southwest FloridaFranklin Lock Recreation Area La Belle Jonathan Dickinson State Park tame scrubjays"pishing" to attractGo to Facts & Information Florida Scrub Jays Dec 19, 2023 · MCCARTHY: In Florida, the scrub jay has also been a political no-go. Mooney filed a similar bill last year. [4] See full list on myfwc. Jan 4, 2023 · Some Florida lawmakers are pushing to change the state bird, again. Jan 23, 2025 · The Florida scrub jay doesn’t exist anywhere outside of Florida, and we are squeezing it out. The outcome of this legal challenge could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the scrub-jay but for many species that rely on the Endangered Species Act for their survival. Jul 10, 2024 · The scrub jay is the only bird unique to Florida — and it is in big trouble. qxuyb ccm ypd xqnqyk mlmsnnx ofotc vhnns jdiumu rjjw eqkbyi