What is the state bird of Maine?
The Chickadee, Poecile atricapillus, named Maine's state bird in 1927. One other state shares it.
- State bird
- Chickadee
- Scientific name
- Poecile atricapillus
- Year adopted
- 1927
- Shared with
- Massachusetts
- Status in Maine
- present all year
- Nesting season here
- May–July
- Size
- 4.7–5.9 in, 0.3–0.5 oz
Why Maine chose the Chickadee
The law names only "the chickadee". The Black-capped Chickadee is the one found across Maine.
Seeing a Black-capped Chickadee in Maine
In Maine the Black-capped Chickadee is present all year. Black cap and bib separated by bright white cheeks. Wing coverts edged broadly in white. Clear two-note whistled "fee-bee"; the namesake "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call adds more "dee"s as threat level rises.
Other states with the Chickadee
Maine shares its bird with Massachusetts. Most state birds were picked in the 1920s and 1930s, often through school votes and women's club campaigns, and popular, widespread birds were chosen again and again.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of Maine?
The Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), adopted in 1927.
When did Maine choose its state bird?
1927.
Do other states have the same state bird as Maine?
Yes: Massachusetts.
Can you see the Chickadee in Maine all year?
In Maine it is present all year. Nesting runs about May to July.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.