Read About Arkansas State Bird

Arkansas State Bird is the Mockingbird. Here's everything you need to know about them.

Arkansas State Bird -- Facts

1. Breed:

   The Arkansas state bird is the Mockingbird.

2. Size:

   Including their tail, they are about ten inches in length and weighs less than two ounces.

3. Life Span:

   This bird has an average life span of 8 years.

4. Varieties:

   There are at least a dozen varieties of Mockingbirds. Northern, Blue, Chalk-browed, Hood and Galapagos are a few of these varieties.

5. Origins:

   The scientific name for the Mockingbird is Mimus polyglottos. They reside in the USA, Cuba, Mexico, the Antilles, the Bahamas, and the Galapagos.

6. Physical Traits:

   The Mockingbird has a tail and wings that are dark grey with patches of white. Adult male and female Mockingbirds look alike, and juvenile mockingbirds have spotting on the breast.

7. Temperament:

   These birds are extremely territorial, especially around their nest.

8. Trainability:

   Mockingbirds have been noted to be trained to follow their owners by hopping behind them. They can also be trained to mock certain sounds.

Arkansas State Bird -- Care

1. Habitat:

   Mockingbirds can be found in many different areas, from the city to forests, and to prairies.

2. Food:

   Mockingbirds are considered to be omnivorous. Their diet is primarily consists of insects, berries and seeds.

3. Compatibility:

   The compatibility of the Mockingbird is not very well documented, as they are no longer a common pet. Most states prohibit the keeping of Mockingbirds as a pet. Studies of these birds in the wild have shown that they are fiercely protective of their territory.

Arkansas State Bird -- Concerns

1. Benefits:

   A major benefit of the Mockingbird is that they are an singing bird that can delight and entertain the listener.

2. Liabilities:

   Mockingbirds should be exercised outside their cage daily if kept as a pet. This could pose a possible hazard if not properly supervised around children or other pets.

3. Health Issues:

   Most birds, including Mockingbirds, are notorious for hiding their illnesses. This is due to their natural instinct to avoid becoming prey of any predator. You should monitor your pet in order to provide health care in a timely manner should the bird become ill.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   You should introduce handling of your bird slowly and gradually. Birds can become excessively nervous during an attempt to handle, and their struggling can result in death.

5. Special Household Needs:

   There needs to be an area in your home where the cage can be placed that is completely draft-free.

Arkansas State Bird -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   The bird's feathers should be full and clean with no bald spots. It should be alert and curious of people near to them.

2. Supplies:

   You will need a cage, food and water dishes, toys, perches, and food.

3. Expense:

   The cost for acquiring a Mockingbird will vary depending upon where you obtain it from. You may find difficulty in finding a Mockingbird since they are prohibited as pets in many states. Should you be able to find one, you may have to incur the added expense for shipping or travel.