You might know that the Buckeye State has a state bird, but did you know we also have a state insect, amphibian and mammal?
Ohio’s state animals all play important roles in biodiversity — and, it turns out, the local economy, too.
“More than six out of every 10 dollars spent in 2022 on wildlife-related recreation came from wildlife watchers,” says Jamey Emmert of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
(Photo courtesy iStock)
Mammal: White-Tailed Deer
Year Designated: 1988
Region: From Southern Canada through Central and South America.
Fun Fact: Ohio’s state tree, the Ohio buckeye, is named after deer, because it is dark brown with a light spot, resembling the shape and color of a deer’s eye.
(Photo courtesy iStock)
Reptile: Black Racer Snake
Year Designated: 1995
Region: Mainly eastern and southern Ohio, but also Northeast America going partially into the South.
Fun Fact: Black racers are excellent climbers and can climb up to 10 feet high, moving at speeds of up to 10 mph.
(Photo courtesy of Ohio Division of Natural Resources)
Bird: Cardinal
Year Designated: 1933
Region: Eastern and Central North America.
Fun Fact: Cardinals get their red tint from carotenoids found in their food.
(Photo courtesy iStock)
Amphibian: Spotted Salamander
Year Designated: 2010
Region: Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Fun Fact: Spotted salamanders can live up to 30 years.
(Photo courtesy iStock)
Insect: Ladybug
Year Designated: 1975
Region: All of North America.
Fun Fact: One ladybug can eat up to 5,000 insects in a lifetime.
(Photo courtesy iStock)
Frog: American Bullfrog
Year Designated: 2010
Region: North America, mainly eastern.
Fun Fact: The bullfrog’s deep call can be heard half a mile away.
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