What bird is the official symbol of 7 different states?

To find the answer, scroll to the bottom of this page!

If you want proof that wildlife is important to us, check out the official emblems of the 50 United States of America.

From Alabama to Wyoming, you'll find that all the states have named an official bird, flower and tree—and sometimes much more—as symbols to represent them. Pretty "wild" stuff!

Sometimes these wild symbols become so important that they serve as nicknames for the states they represent. Do you know which state is known as The Buckeye State? How about The Magnolia State?

What about YOUR state? Do you know its official symbols? Check the list on the right to learn their names. Why do you think they were chosen? Are they a good match for your state?

Click the name of any state to find out more about its "wild" symbols. Clicking the names of the state birds, trees, flowers, fish and insects will pop up cool flashcards filled with facts about them.

When you click on a state, you'll also find loads of information on the state parks and wildlife refuges you can visit there. We've even got wildlife guides for every state in the continental U.S.—check it out!

Q: What bird is the official symbol of 7 different states?

A: Cardinal. (The states are Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia.)

—Illustration by Dave Clegg