Ask any one, who has heard the
mocker and you will learn that the mockingbird has the prettiest
song of any bird native to North America. The "mocker" was adopted
as the state bird of Texas in 1927.
The song of the mockingbird is, a mocking of the calls of many
other birds. Each imitation is repeated two or three times, all in
rapid succession, and that is how another song is started. It is
common for an individual bird to have as many as 25-30 songs in its
repertory.
The mockingbird is also a fierce protector of its nest and
environment. It is sometimes seen swooping down on a animals such as
a dog, cat or predator that may be venturing too close to the bird's
territory.
The mimus polyglottos, as the mockingbird
is known scientifically, is about ten inches in length, including
its relatively long tail. It has a light gray coat and a whitish
underside. Its wings and tail are darker gray with white patches.
