Pontiac Trans-Am Hood Bird: What Species Is It?

The iconic hood bird on Pontiac Trans-Am cars, often called the 'screaming chicken,' was inspired by Tiffany vase art and designed by Bill Porter. Although initially based on a Hopi bird pendant, the aggressive decal was developed from a sketch influenced by Tiffany glass designs. Despite Bill Mitchell's initial disapproval, the decal became a symbol of the Trans-Am, especially after its appearance in 'Smokey and the Bandit,' and was available in numerous colors before being discontinued in the 1980s. The exact bird species remains unidentified.