Nebraska's State Tree
The cottonwood tree was selected as the Nebraska state tree in 1972. It replaced the original state tree, the American elm. Cottonwood trees have thick bark and a triangular or diamond shaped leaves. These trees were planted by pioneers as they settled in Nebraska. They are often used for lumber. The wood from a cottonwood tree does not make good fuel for a fire as it splits irregularly, doesn't dry well, and rots quickly. White feathery fibers are connected to the seeds to allow the seeds to float far away from the tree. Cottonwood trees may grow to be over 80 feet long.
Nebraska's State Bird
Nebraska adopted the Western Meadowlark as the official state bird in 1929. This bird was selected by schoolchildren in Nebraska. A ballot was sent out to schools all across Nebraska asking children what their favorite bird was. The Western Meadowlark won by getting the majority of the votes.
You may find this bird flying across the open plains of much of the central United States. To identify a Western Meadowlark, look for the distinctive bright yellow breast and cheeks with a black V across the neck. The feathers are a mixture of dark and light brown. Their heads are striped and they have long, pointed bill. They sing a very pretty song that has been compared to the sound of a flute.
You may find this bird flying across the open plains of much of the central United States. To identify a Western Meadowlark, look for the distinctive bright yellow breast and cheeks with a black V across the neck. The feathers are a mixture of dark and light brown. Their heads are striped and they have long, pointed bill. They sing a very pretty song that has been compared to the sound of a flute.
Nebraska's State Flower
The goldenrod flower was officially declared the state flower on April 4, 1895. It is also the official state flower of Kentucky and the official wildflower of South Carolina. This flower can be found growing wild almost everywhere in the state. It is a hardy flower that can withstand the harsh conditions of the prairie. It is often blamed for the allergies of hay fever sufferers, as is releases a massive amount of pollen. It's bright golden color attracts honeybees and butterflies.