There are about 17 species in two genera, although three species of mockingbird from the Galápagos Islands were formerly separated into a third genus, Nesomimus.
Mockingbirds have small heads, a long, thin bill with a hint of a downward curve, and long legs. Their wings are short, rounded, and broad, making the tail seem particularly long in flight. Mockingbirds are overall gray-brown, paler on the breast and belly, with two white wingbars on each wing.
The Northern Mockingbird, a familiar sight and sound across much of North America, is far more than just a pretty face and a talented mimic. This adaptable bird boasts a complex life history, a significant ecological role, and a surprisingly rich connection to human culture.
There are at least 16 mockingbird species that exist in the world. Although North America is only home to the Northern Mockingbird, there are several different mockingbird species that live within South America.
The male Northern Mockingbird sings to defend territory and attract a mate, often leaping a few feet in the air and flapping his wings while singing. The early stage of courtship involves the male and female chasing each other rapidly around the territory.
The northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) is a mockingbird commonly found in North America, of the family Mimidae. The species is also found in some parts of the Caribbean, as well as on the Hawaiian Islands.
If you’ve been hearing an endless string of 10 or 15 different birds singing outside your house, you might have a Northern Mockingbird in your yard. These slender-bodied gray birds apparently pour all their color into their personalities.