What is the state bird of Alabama?
The Yellowhammer (Northern Flicker), Colaptes auratus, named Alabama's state bird in 1927. No other state has chosen it.
- State bird
- Yellowhammer (Northern Flicker)
- Scientific name
- Colaptes auratus
- Year adopted
- 1927
- Shared with
- No other state
- Status in Alabama
- present all year
- Nesting season here
- March–June
- Size
- 11–12.2 in, 3.9–5.6 oz
- State game bird
- Wild Turkey (1980)
Why Alabama chose the Yellowhammer
Alabama's Confederate cavalry were nicknamed "Yellowhammers" for the yellow cloth trim on their uniforms, which recalled the yellow under the flicker's wings, and the nickname stuck to the state.
Seeing a Northern Flicker in Alabama
In Alabama the Northern Flicker is present all year. Brown with black bars and spotted belly. Black crescent bib. Loud 'wick-wick-wick' and a piercing 'klee-yer'.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of Alabama?
The Yellowhammer (Northern Flicker) (Colaptes auratus), adopted in 1927.
When did Alabama choose its state bird?
1927.
Do other states have the same state bird as Alabama?
No. Alabama is the only state with the Yellowhammer (Northern Flicker).
Can you see the Yellowhammer (Northern Flicker) in Alabama all year?
In Alabama it is present all year. Nesting runs about March to June.
Does Alabama have other official birds?
Wild Turkey (state game bird, 1980).
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.