Since I have no pictures feel free to pull out a Oklahoma state quarter because this bird is right on the back. On the other hand, they're very beautiful birds and a minted representation doesn't do them justice.
It's a very distinctive bird, and you if ever see one you'll know what I mean. They are about 11-15 inches long, but at least half of that is tail (their tails alone can reach up to 9 inches long). The tails are divided in two, closed when at rest but opening and closing while flying. The name starts to make sense now doesn't it.
Scissortails are light grey on the head, breast, and upper back. They have dark grey wings, top part of the tail, and beak. There is one little stripe of bright red at their shoulder, it isn't always visible when at rest, but it's definately visible when the wings are spread. Sometimes they have slightly yellowish thighs, but since you should be able to make a pretty positive identification from the tail and size alone you probably won't have to be worry about their thighs.
Mockingbirds also have long tails but their's fans out and the top of their heads is darker as well.
Scissortails are a very localized bird, mainly found in Oklahoma and Texas with some ranging into adjacent states.
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