Pennsylvania is considering ending its status as the only state without a state bird by designating the scarlet tanager as its official “migratory bird,” writes Zoë Read for WHYY.
While Pennsylvanians have already named the ruffed grouse the official “game bird,” bird enthusiasts are welcoming the idea of also establishing a “migratory bird” designation.
State legislators have proposed a bill to recognize the vibrant songbird, which migrates from South America to Pennsylvania each year to breed in forested areas.
“I don’t think anyone wants to knock the grouse off its pedestal, but if there’s room for two, I would say the scarlet tanager is an absolutely wonderful bird, deserving to be a pair for Pennsylvania,” said David Toews, a biology professor at Pennsylvania State University.
Scarlet tanagers migrate from South America to the eastern United States each spring, with about 13 percent of their breeding population found in Pennsylvania, mostly in the state’s largest forests. Locally, they can be spotted in Wissahickon Valley Park and Pennypack Park.
State Rep. Mandy Steele, the proposed legislation’s sponsor, said that designating the bird “is a chance to celebrate our natural heritage while inspiring the next generation to protect it.”
Read more about scarlet tanagers and how Pennsylvania is considering making it the state’s official “migratory bird” in WHYY.
_______
