Wings of Gold: The Story of Alabama’s Yellowhammer

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — When residents of Alabama look to the skies or listen to the rhythmic tapping on backyard trees, they are often searching for a special local icon. This bird doesn't wear a crown, but it does sport bright yellow feathers under its wings. Known scientifically as the Northern Flicker, this bird is more famously called the "Yellowhammer." It is not just the state bird; it is the reason Alabama is known across the country as the Yellowhammer State.

While many states chose their state birds based on their beautiful songs or bright colors, Alabama’s choice is rooted in history. To understand why this woodpecker is so important, one must look back to the days of the American Civil War. During that time, a group of Confederate soldiers from Huntsville, Alabama, arrived at a camp wearing new uniforms. These uniforms were unique because they had bright yellow cloth sewn onto the sleeves, collars, and coattails.