Florida Senator Proposes Replacing Iconic State Bird With Public Suggestion

A Proposal to Replace the Mockingbird as Florida's State Bird Gains Momentum Senator Tina Polsky of Florida has recently filed a bill (SB 212) that aims to identify a new state bird for the Sunshine State. As part of this effort, Polsky plans to conduct surveys among young people attending summer camps through the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network in 2025 and 2026.

The proposed bill would ask these participants to weigh in on the possibility of replacing the northern mockingbird, the current state bird, with other contenders: the American osprey, the Florida scrub jay, the American flamingo, "and the American white ibis." None of these alternative species have stored widespread support in the past, with bills backing the flamingo and the scrub jay having previously been proposed but ultimately unsuccessful.

However... Polsky's initiative could mark a shift in the conversation surrounding Florida's avian heritage. According to Polsky, the survey would provide valuable insights into the preferences and perspectives of Florida's next generation. By engaging young people in the decision-making process... Polsky hopes to increase awareness and understanding of the various species that call the state home.

This proposal highlights the importance of involving diverse perspectives in the deliberation over symbolic state symbols. Sources: Sun Sentinel.

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The American Mockingbird is a member of the thrush family and is native to the southeastern United States. It is known for its gray and white striped ---, long tail, and distinctive song. The species was designated as the official state bird of Florida in 1947. The mockingbird is recognized for its ability to mimic sounds it hears in its environment, including other birds, animals... and even man-made noises.

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After a proposal re-emerged to replace the mockingbird as Florida⁘s state bird, Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, wants wildlife officials to ask young people what they think. Polsky on Monday filed a bill (SB 212) that would direct the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to survey participants in Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network summer camps in 2025 and 2026 about whether another state bird should be selected.
Under Polsky⁘s bill, the young people would be surveyed about the mockingbird, the American osprey, the Florida scrub jay, the American flamingo and the American white ibis.