Florida Advances Bill Making Flamingo Official State Bird Because Just Like Florida It Is “Unafraid To Stand Tall”

“Florida is a land of color, contrast and coastline, of diverse wildlife, unique ecosystems and unmatched spirit. Let me ask you, when the world thinks of Florida, do they think of a gray mockingbird or do they see a bold, bright flamingo standing tall in the sun?

“We often say Florida is unlike anywhere else. Let’s prove it. The flamingo is not just an icon; it reminds us that Florida is bold, brilliant and unafraid to stand tall. And this bill is not just about birds; it is about identity, conservation and culture.

“Florida deserves to be represented by what is ours and only ours.” – Florida GOP state Rep. Ana Maria Rodriquez, on the bill to replace with mockingbird with the flamingo as the official state bird.

Florida Republicans say they don’t feel special because three other states have the mockingbird as their state bird. This week’s bill also names the scrub jay as the Florida’s official “songbird.”