First bill filed in Florida’s 2026 legislative session changes state bird

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida lawmakers haven’t even returned to the Capitol yet, but the first policy bill of the 2026 session is already in.

Representative Jim Mooney, R-Key Largo, wants to swap out the mockingbird, Florida’s state bird since 1927, with one he says better represents the Sunshine State: the American flamingo.

“It’s palm trees and flamingos,” Mooney said.

Florida already boasts plenty of iconic symbols, from dolphins to oranges to Key lime pie. Mooney argues that flamingos not only match Florida’s tropical image but also highlight a conservation success story.

“These birds are back, and they’re staying because their food sources that were missing for decades are back too,” Mooney said.

At least four other states also claim the mockingbird as their official bird. Mooney said Florida has a chance to stand out while showcasing the progress made in Everglades restoration.

“At the turn of the century, flamingos were basically all but wiped out,” Mooney said. “Pink plumes and even flamingo tongues were considered delicacies. This is about bringing something back from the brink of extinction.”

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission already recognizes flamingos as native to the state, and the bright pink bird is no stranger to Florida branding, appearing in the state lottery logo and countless tourism ads.

This isn’t the first time lawmakers have tried to make the flamingo official. The effort has been attempted nine times before, including in 2025, when it gained traction in the Senate.

“We often say Florida is unlike anywhere else. Let’s prove it,” said Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez, R-Miami, earlier this year. “The flamingo is not just an icon, it reminds us Florida is bold, brilliant and unafraid to stand tall.”

Mooney’s proposal also includes designating the Florida scrub-jay as the official state songbird.

Committee weeks begin October 6, with the 60-day regular session set to start January 13.