Louisiana is famous for its wildlife. As such, the state has named nine official state animals, ranging from dogs to fish to reptiles to insects and more.
Here's everything to know about Louisiana's state animals:
Amphibian: Green Tree Frog
While the green tree frog can be found in numerous states throughout the south — mostly in coastal areas — it is also native to all of Louisiana, including the far northern part of the state.
Bird: Brown Pelican
Perhaps the most famous of all Louisiana state symbols, the brown pelican can be found throughout the Gulf coast region of the United States and even as far south as South America.
Butterfly: Gulf Fritillary
Despite being more common across Florida and Texas, the Gulf Fritillary (also known as the passion butterfly) has been Louisiana's state butterfly since 2022.
Crusteacean: Crawfish
Another one of Louisiana's most famous state symbols, crawfish can be found nearly anywhere in freshwater.
Dog: Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog
Louisiana became one of the first states in the country to adopt a state dog when then-Governor Edwin Edwards signed a bill naming the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog as such in 1979.
Fish: White Perch
The white perch is native to the Mississippi River, and can be found in states the river runs through, including Louisiana.
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Insect: Honeybee
Although not originally native to North America — it was introduced to the continent in the 1600s — the honeybee can now be found almost everywhere in the world except for Antarctica.
Mammal: Louisiana Black Bear
The Louisiana black bear can be found in eight parishes throughout the state: Iberia, Madison, Point Coupee, St. Mary, Tensas, West Carroll, and on the Richard K. Yancey Wildlife Management Area in Avoyelles and Concordia.
Reptile: American Alligator
Another one of Louisiana's most famous symbols, the American alligator is the official state reptile for three Gulf-region states: Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida.
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This article originally appeared on The Courier: Does Louisiana have a state animal? Get Louisiana's state animals here
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