The Northern Mockingbird, Mimus polyglottos, is best known for its ability to copy the sounds of 50 -60 other birds. Mimus polyglottos means “many-tongued mimic” in Latin. Recent studies indicate that mocking birds can mimic the sounds of frogs, music, auto horns and alarms, and machinery. These amazing birds can learn up to 200 songs and will serenade you all day and all night long.
Look for mockingbirds in open grassy areas, near shrubs, and singing on a fence or from a high spot such as a utility pole. Mockingbirds eat insects such as ants, wasps, butterflies, and grasshoppers. Fruit is a favorite food in the fall and winter.
Both the male and female build the nest in trees or shrubs. Female mocking birds lay 2-6 eggs two or three times each year. Mockingbirds are extremely defensive of their territory. They will swoop at humans, cats, birds, and other mockingbirds who get too close to their nests.
Florida was so enamored by this native songbird that it designated the Northern Mockingbird as the official state bird in 1927. Attract this bird to your yard by planting fruiting shrubs or trees.
Photo Credit: Dan Kon
