Nebraska's State Insect
Nebraska designated the honeybee as the official state insect in 1975. Honeybees are very important to Nebraska agriculture. They pollinate flowers and crops throughout the state. The honeybee is the state insect of seventeen other states in the United States. We also benefit from the honey production of honeybees.
Nebraska's State Fish
The channel catfish was designated as Nebraska's state fish in 1997. This fish is the most numerous fish in North America. It can grow to be fifty pounds but the average weight is two to four pounds. They can be found in rivers, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs. Four pairs of barbels (or whiskers) are found around the mouth and are used to find food in dark and dirty water.
Nebraska's State Mammal
The white tailed deer was designated as Nebraska's state mammal in 1981. These powerful animals are able to run up to 40 miles an hour, jump 9-foot fences, and swim 13 miles an hour. The underside of it's tail is full of white fur. This is a signal of danger to other deer as they run. Deer have been hunted for their fur, hide, and food for many centuries.