scissortail

The scissortail, scientifically known as Muscivora forficata, is a distinctive bird found primarily in the south-central United States, particularly in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas. It is also known by the common name "Texas bird of paradise." Its most striking feature, and the source of its name, is the exceptionally long, forked tail of the male. These tail feathers are so long they often trail behind the bird as it flies, resembling scissors in motion. The female scissortail possesses a shorter tail, though still noticeably forked.

Scissortails are insectivores, feeding mainly on grasshoppers, beetles, and other flying insects. They are often observed perching on wires, fences, or scattered trees in open grasslands, pastures, and savannas, from which they sally out to catch prey in mid-air. Their flight pattern is acrobatic and includes rapid wingbeats interspersed with glides. They are also known for their aerial courtship displays.

The bird's plumage is a vibrant mix of colors. The back and wings are typically a pale gray, while the underside is a pale yellow. The head is often a soft gray, and the throat is white. The tail is black on the outer edges and white in the center. Scissortails are migratory birds, spending their winters in Central America and returning to their breeding grounds in the spring. Oklahoma adopted the scissortail as its state bird in 1951.