Adopted 1966
What is the state bird of Louisiana?
The Brown Pelican, Pelecanus occidentalis, named Louisiana's state bird in 1966. No other state has chosen it.
- State bird
- Brown Pelican
- Scientific name
- Pelecanus occidentalis
- Year adopted
- 1966
- Shared with
- No other state
Why Louisiana chose the Brown Pelican
The pelican is on Louisiana's flag and seal. It disappeared from the state by the early 1960s after DDT poisoning, was reintroduced from Florida from 1968, and came off the federal endangered list in 2009.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of Louisiana?
The Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), adopted in 1966.
When did Louisiana choose its state bird?
1966.
Do other states have the same state bird as Louisiana?
No. Louisiana is the only state with the Brown Pelican.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.