Pennsylvania, also referred to as the Keystone State, has a size of 46,055 square miles and is home to many different types of wildlife. Beyond its bustling human population, the state is the natural habitat for an estimated 436 bird species, 66 mammals, 65 freshwater fish, and 61 amphibians. This huge variety of creatures includes Pennsylvania state animals like the White-tailed Deer, the Great Dane, the Eastern Hellbender, and the Ruffed Grouse.
6 Pennsylvania state animals
Each of these symbols has a significant role to play in the state’s ecology and culture and a rich history to tell. To better understand these interesting animals, this article explores their characteristics, habitats, and why they were chosen as state symbols.
1. White-Tailed Deer
- Scientific Name: Odocoileus virginianus
- Status: Pennsylvania State Animal
The White-Tailed Deer is a species of deer that’s typically between three and four feet in length and is distinguished by the white underside of its tail. It’s native to the Americas and possesses a large geographical range, extending from the northern to the southern parts of the continent. On October 2, 1959, Pennsylvania made the white-tailed deer its official state animal.
The decision was made because of the deer’s vital place in the state’s ecosystem and heritage. Traditionally, Native Americans and settlers utilized the deer as a valuable resource for food and clothing.
Today, the white-tailed deer serves as an iconic representation of the state’s abundant woodlands and diverse animals, illustrating the state’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and the richness of its ecosystems.
2. Brook Trout
- Scientific Name: Salvelinus fontinalis
- Status: Pennsylvania State Fish
The Brook Trout is an eastern North American freshwater fish species belonging to the Salmonidae family. It can flourish in a wide variety of water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and spring ponds, but it does best in extremely pure, crystal-clear waters, and has a restricted pH range. Pennsylvania recognized the ecological value of the Brook Trout by designating it as the state fish on March 9, 1970.
The Brook Trout is the only native trout species in the state. This species, which may be found in Pennsylvania’s plentiful cold water streams that stretch for more than 4,000 miles, is a prime example of the state’s tremendous aquatic variety.
The fact that the Brook Trout is particularly sensitive to changes in water quality highlights the importance of environmental conservation efforts within the state. These efforts are a reflection of Pennsylvania’s dedication to maintaining the state’s distinctive natural heritage.
3. Pennsylvania firefly
- Scientific Name: Photuris pennsylvanica
- Status: Pennsylvania State Insect
The summertime nights in Pennsylvania become a dazzling fairy realm thanks to the Pennsylvania Firefly, a type of beetle recognized for its capacity to emit light. The length of this creature is between 11 and 15 millimeters, and its body is predominantly black with bright red eyespots, yellow edges, and a greenish-yellow bioluminescent glow.
This species, sometimes known as the “lightning bug,” was officially recognized as Pennsylvania’s state insect on December 5, 1988, thanks to the efforts of Highland Park Elementary School pupils. Students from the state worked to make the state’s official insect symbol a firefly, which they saw as a representation of the state’s natural nocturnal beauty.
4. Eastern Hellbender
- Scientific Name: Cryptobranchus alleganiensis
- Status: Pennsylvania State Amphibian
The Eastern Hellbender is a huge aquatic salamander that lives in the eastern and central United States. The declining population of this species and the need to bring attention to its issue led to its designation as Pennsylvania’s State amphibian on April 23, 2019. Because of its dependence on fresh water, the Hellbender symbolizes the state’s commitment to protecting natural areas and sustaining water quality.
The Pennsylvania Student Leadership Council of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation fought hard to get it officially recognized, and their efforts show how vital it is for young people to get involved in environmental protection. This recognition of the Eastern Hellbender highlights the state’s dedication to biodiversity and environmental preservation.
5. Great Dane
- Scientific Name: Canis lupus familiaris
- Status: Pennsylvania State Dog
The Great Dane breed, a huge dog originally from Germany, was designated as the official state dog on August 15, 1965. Great Danes have a special place in the history of Pennsylvania due to their long history as hunting and working dogs. The state’s founder, William Penn, owned a Great Dane, and a portrait of him with his beloved dog adorns the governor’s Reception Room in the Pennsylvania Capitol.
This breed was selected to represent the state’s pioneering spirit and all it stands for hardiness, loyalty, and bravery. The Great Dane is an integral part of the state’s culture and history, symbolizing the hardiness and perseverance that define the state.
6. Ruffed Grouse
- Scientific Name: Bonasa umbellus
- Status: Pennsylvania State Gamebird
On June 22, 1931, the Ruffed Grouse, a medium-sized grouse with black “ruffs” on its neck, was officially recognized as the state’s game bird. This widespread species was an important part of the food of the first Americans and can still be seen today in Pennsylvania’s woods.
The decision to designate it as the state game bird was made to honor Pennsylvania’s long history of hunting and the crucial role that game birds played in the survival of the state’s early settlers. The bird’s widespread range and adaptation capacity make it an appropriate symbol of Pennsylvania’s natural heritage since it reflect the state’s varied landscape and hardy character.
Louise writes about a wide variety of topics including wildlife, animals, and nature. She’s developed a growing interest in animal biology and categorization due to her fascination with how they interact with one another and with their surroundings.