North Dakota State Symbols

State Bird: Western Meadowlark

State Fish: Northern Pike

State Flower: Wild Rose

State Tree: American Elm

State Grass: Western Wheatgrass

State Fossil: Teredo Petrified Wood

State Dance: Square Dance

State March: Flickertail March

State Honorary Equine: Nokota Horse

State Beverage: Milk

State Song: "North Dakota Hymn" with words by James W. Foley and music by Dr. C. S. Putnam

Motto: "Liberty and union now and forever, one and inseparable"

Origin of State Name: The name Dakota is derived from a Sioux term meaning friends or allies.

Nickname for State: The Peace Garden State. The nickname is a reference to the International Peace Garden on the border between North Dakota and Manitoba.

Nickname for residents: North Dakotans