The northern mockingbird is still Texas' state bird, a title it has held since 1927.
The Texas State Historical Association records that the species was adopted that year at the request of the Texas Federation of Women's Clubs. Separately, bill text for HB 309 carries a heading that says the measure relates to the designation of the state bird.
In Texas the mockingbird is a permanent resident from sea level to more than 6,000 feet. Its song may continue for more than an hour without a pause, and the birds frequently attack hawks and cats that prey on them and their young.
Texas does not have the species to itself. The same handbook entry lists the northern mockingbird as the state bird of Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi and Tennessee as well.
