I am introducing legislation to designate the Scarlet Tanager as Pennsylvania’s official state migratory bird and respectfully invite you to join me as a co-sponsor. This striking native songbird breeds across the Commonwealth’s forests each spring and summer before migrating to Central and South America, making it a powerful symbol of Pennsylvania’s rich natural heritage and of our Commonwealth’s connection to the broader hemisphere.
 
Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation economy generates billions of dollars annually and supports over 168,000 jobs, with birdwatching and wildlife tourism playing a meaningful role in driving local spending across Pennsylvania communities. The Scarlet Tanager—widely recognized for the male’s brilliant red plumage and black wings—draws birders and outdoor enthusiasts to our state parks, forests, and game lands. Recognizing it as our state migratory bird highlights the economic value of healthy forests and thriving wildlife while promoting Pennsylvania as a premier destination for outdoor recreation.
 
Beyond its economic impact, the Scarlet Tanager is an indicator species for large, intact forest ecosystems. Elevating this species underscores the importance of conservation, sustainable forest management, and habitat stewardship—values that resonate across party lines and regions of the Commonwealth. This designation provides an opportunity to celebrate Pennsylvania’s biodiversity, promote environmental education, and inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.
 
I respectfully ask you to join me in recognizing the Scarlet Tanager as Pennsylvania’s state migratory bird by co-sponsoring this legislation.