Discover the Official State Bird of Alabama

Many of the states in the United States will choose different symbols, plants, and animals to represent the state. Among these is the state of Alabama. Continue reading below to learn about the official state bird of Alabama, including how it came to be and about the species itself. 

The official state bird of Alabama is the yellowhammer, or the northern flicker (Colaptes auratus). Because of this, one of Alabama’s state nicknames is the Yellowhammer State. 

How Did the Yellowhammer Become the State Bird of Alabama?

The northern flicker became the official state bird of Alabama in 1927. However, this woodpecker has represented the state on an unofficial basis since the late 19th century. This bird’s significance in the state relates to a story revolving around the Civil War, where a certain band of soldiers wore uniforms with yellow markings similar to that of the northern flicker.

Species Profile: Yellowhammer

There are two types of northern flickers: red-shafted and yellow-shafted. These differences revolve around the different coloration under the wings as well as markings. The yellow-shafted, which is the only type of northern flicker, sports a yellow coloration under its wings. Because of this, it is often called the yellowhammer.

The northern flicker is native to North America. It has a significant year-round population present in most of the United States, as well as breeding territory in Canada and wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. 

Official State Game Bird of Alabama

The northern flicker isn’t the only bird that represents Alabama, however. The wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) was designated as the state game bird in 1980.

Species Profile: Wild Turkey

The wild turkey is also known as the eastern turkey or eastern wild turkey. A ground bird native to North America, the wild turkey is one of the most well-known game birds. They are abundant in the woodlands they call home. Although they spend most of their time on the ground foraging for food or interacting with one another, they roost in flocks in trees. Their bodies may not seem designed to fly, but they are, in fact, capable of taking flight.