A bill

 

TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS by ENACTing THE "PROTHONOTARY WARBLER RECOGNITION ACT" BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-613 SO AS TO DESIGNATE THE PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (PROTONOTARIA CITREA) AS THE OFFICIAL STATE MIGRATORY BIRD OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

 

Whereas, the Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) is a strikingly beautiful, golden-yellow songbird that migrates annually between South Carolina and its wintering grounds in Central and South America; and

 

Whereas, South Carolina provides critical breeding, stopover, and foraging habitat for the Prothonotary Warbler during its annual lifecycle, particularly in the state's bottomland hardwood forests, swamps, and wetlands, such as Audubon's 18,000 acre Francis Beidler Forest in Four Holes swamp, providing tree cavities for nesting and an abundant supply of insects for food, which are essential for nesting, feeding, and resting as the species travels thousands of miles between continents; and

 

Whereas, the warbler is an indicator species, meaning its presence reflects the health of South Carolina's wetland ecosystems, and protecting its habitat benefits not only the Prothonotary Warbler but also a diverse array of wildlife, including other migratory birds, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates that rely on these environments; and

 

Whereas, South Carolina's natural resources-including its rivers, forests, and wetlands-are vital to the state's economy, culture, and biodiversity, and recognizing the Prothonotary Warbler as the official state migratory bird will underscore South Carolina's commitment to conservation, ecotourism, and the protection of its natural heritage; and

 

Whereas, promoting awareness of the Prothonotary Warbler and its habitat needs will help encourage responsible land and water management, ensuring that South Carolina's rich environmental legacy is preserved for future generations. Now, therefore,

 

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

 

SECTION 1.  This act may be cited as the "Prothonotary Warbler Recognition Act."

 

SECTION 2.  Article 9, Chapter 1, Title 1 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

 

    Section 1-1-613. The Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) is the official state migratory bird of South Carolina.

 

SECTION 3.  This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

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