In Nature Magazine, April 1932, state bird proponent Katherine B. Tippetts wrote, “There remain only five states that have as yet not joined in the selection of a State bird. These are Connecticut, Indiana, Iowa, New Jersey, and Tennessee.”.
Iowa and New Jersey both later adopted the goldfinch. Iowa made its choice official on March 22, 1933. It was chosen by the Iowa Ornithological Union. (An ornithologist is someone who studies birds.)
A common species in Iowa, the goldfinch was chosen because many goldfinches stay in Iowa in winter, especially when bird feeders are available. Most goldfinches migrate south as far as Mexico. However, the goldfinch’s striking color must have also played a role in its selection.
Another Iowa bird symbol is the bald eagle, which is depicted on the state flag and seal. However, it represents the United States rather than Iowa.
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