Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to the story
ANIMALSO
Breeding

Oklahoma’s 15 Official Animal Symbols, Explained by Category

Oklahoma’s bison is the state animal, but the complete list contains 15 separate designations, including birds, horses, rescue animals, fish, reptiles and insects.

By Animalso Team 7 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Oklahoma’s official state animal is the American bison. The frequently cited total of 15 is broader: it counts 15 separately named animal-related designations, including the state bird, game animal, state horse, heritage horse, state pet, fish, butterfly and insect. Oklahoma does not have one law titled “the 15 state animals.”

The list below follows the category labels used by the Oklahoma Historical Society and the state’s statutory compilation. That approach explains why rescue animals appear alongside individual species, and why the American Quarter Horse and Oklahoma Colonial Spanish horse have different official roles.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What the number 15 actually counts

“State animals” can mean different things in an Oklahoma classroom, travel guide or search result. If the phrase means mammals only, the answer is much shorter. For this article, the count includes every current animal-related category listed by the Oklahoma Historical Society: state animal, furbearer, game animal, state horse, heritage horse, state pet, bird, raptor, game bird, flying mammal, reptile, amphibian, fish, butterfly and insect.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

These are not a ranked list. The bison is the animal designated as Oklahoma’s state animal; the other entries identify a particular legal or cultural category. Some are individual species, while the state-pet designation covers a class of companion animals rather than one taxon.

#1 Best Overall
24-in-1 Dog Vitamins and Supplements 200 Ct Dogs Multivitamin Chewable Contain Chondroitin Probiotics Omega-3 Glucosamine for Dogs Skin Coat Heart Joint Gut Liver Brain Eyes Immune Support - Chicken
  • Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
  • Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
  • Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
  • Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
  • Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy

Oklahoma’s official symbols were adopted through different resolutions and statutes over many decades. The Oklahoma Historical Society provides the readable category list and historical background, while Title 25 of the Oklahoma Statutes supplies the statutory language for several designations. The list below reflects the legislature’s compilation accessed October 13, 2026.

The complete list of Oklahoma’s 15 animal designations

Official designation Animal or group Adopted or named
State animal American bison (Bison bison) 1972
Furbearer Raccoon (Procyon lotor) 1989
Game animal White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) 1989
State horse American Quarter Horse 2022
Heritage horse Oklahoma Colonial Spanish horse 2014
State pet Rescue animals 2021
State bird Scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus) 1951
State raptor Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 2018
Game bird Wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) 2006
Flying mammal Mexican free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis) 2006
Reptile Collared lizard (Crotaphytus collaris) Not stated on the Society’s symbol page
Amphibian Bullfrog (Rana (Lithobates) catesbeiana) 1997
Fish White bass (Morone chrysops), also called sand bass 1974
Butterfly Black swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes) 1996
Insect Honeybee (Apis mellifera) 1992

The Historical Society’s current page does not state an adoption year for the collared lizard in the table above; leaving that cell as “not stated” avoids assigning an unsupported date.

What each designation represents

Mammals, horses and the state pet

American bison — state animal. The bison is the one entry that answers the narrow question, “What is Oklahoma’s state animal?” It was selected for its historical presence in the state’s grasslands and woodlands and its importance to Indigenous cultures and ceremonies. The Oklahoma Historical Society’s transcription of the 1972 resolution says the animal was “the magnificent animal was native to both the grasslands and woodlands of what is now Oklahoma and was significant in the cultures and ceremonies of many of the Indian tribes who lived in Oklahoma and have passed along their heritage to modern-day Oklahomans.” That is historical resolution language, not a modern quote from an identified speaker. The Society’s species description says a bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand almost six feet tall.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Raccoon — furbearer. This category names a species traditionally recognized in Oklahoma’s furbearer classification. It is distinct from the game-animal designation and should not be presented as a second state mammal.

White-tailed deer — game animal. The deer’s designation identifies it as Oklahoma’s official game animal. “Game animal” is a category label; it does not replace the separate state-animal title held by the bison.

Rank #2
Zesty Paws Dog Vitamins - Dog Multivitamin Chews, Chicken, 90 Ct | Dog Vitamins and Supplements for Hip & Joints, Skin & Coat, Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
  • 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
  • Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
  • Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
  • Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
  • Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.

American Quarter Horse — state horse. This is Oklahoma’s general state-horse designation. It should not be merged with the heritage-horse entry simply because both are horses.

Oklahoma Colonial Spanish horse — heritage horse. The heritage designation recognizes a different historical horse population associated with Oklahoma. Listing both horses preserves the distinction between a current state-horse symbol and a heritage symbol.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Rescue animals — state pet. Under Cali’s Law, Oklahoma’s state pet is a category of companion animals adopted from licensed shelters or qualifying animal-welfare or rescue organizations. It therefore does not name one breed or species. A rescued dog, cat or another qualifying companion animal can fit the legal definition, provided the adoption comes through an eligible organization.

Mexican free-tailed bat — flying mammal. Oklahoma uses “flying mammal” rather than placing the bat under the general state-animal title. The Historical Society specifically points to the species’ presence at Selman Bat Cave Wildlife Management Area, making the designation a link between an Oklahoma site and a native bat.

Birds

Scissor-tailed flycatcher — state bird. This long-tailed songbird has held the state-bird designation since 1951. The Historical Society notes that its forked tail can grow up to nine inches long, an immediately useful identification feature. The state-bird label is separate from both the raptor and game-bird categories.

Rank #3
Dog Vitamins and Supplements 250 Chews - 26 in 1 Dog Multivitamin Soft Chews with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Probiotics, Omega 3 - Hip & Joint, Skin & Coat, Immune Support - Chicken Flavor
  • COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
  • ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
  • SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
  • PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
  • UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.

Red-tailed hawk — state raptor. The red-tailed hawk is the official raptor. A state announcement also uses that exact “state raptor” wording, so it is more precise than calling every officially recognized bird a state bird.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Wild turkey — game bird. The wild turkey occupies the game-bird category. Its designation does not make it Oklahoma’s state bird; that title belongs to the scissor-tailed flycatcher.

Reptile, amphibian and fish

Collared lizard — reptile. Also known as the mountain boomer, the collared lizard can grow up to a foot long. The Society describes the male as brightly colored. “Mountain boomer” is a common name, not a separate Oklahoma designation.

Bullfrog — amphibian. Oklahoma’s amphibian is listed as bullfrog, with the scientific name Rana (Lithobates) catesbeiana on the Society’s symbol information. The parenthetical genus reflects alternate taxonomic treatment in references; it does not indicate two different state amphibians.

White bass — fish. The fish designation goes to white bass, commonly called sand bass. Those are two names for the same listed symbol, not two entries in the 15-item count.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Nutramax Cosequin Joint Supplement for Dogs, Chewable Tablets, 132ct
  • Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
  • Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
  • For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
  • Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
  • Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients

Butterfly and insect

Black swallowtail — butterfly. The historical rationale for this designation highlights the butterfly’s role in cross-pollination and ecological education. It is counted under its own butterfly category rather than being folded into the broader insect entry.

Honeybee — insect. Oklahoma’s insect symbol is the honeybee. The resolution rationale emphasizes crop pollination and the food supply, giving the designation an agricultural as well as ecological context.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Why the category labels matter

Several pairs look interchangeable until the legal labels are read carefully. The state animal is not the same as the furbearer or game animal. The state bird is not the same as the state raptor or game bird. Likewise, the state horse and heritage horse are intentionally separate, and a state pet can describe many adopted companion animals rather than one wild species.

This classification also prevents a common counting error: adding every symbol that happens to be an animal and then calling the result a single official list. Oklahoma’s designations come from separate acts and resolutions. Counting the 15 named categories produces a useful, reproducible total, but it should always be accompanied by the category names.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How Oklahoma’s symbols were established

The Oklahoma Historical Society’s symbols page brings together adoption years, category names and plain-language descriptions. The statutory compilation confirms several later additions, including the flying mammal, game bird, raptor and state pet. For legal wording—especially the definition of rescue animals under Cali’s Law—use Title 25 rather than relying on an undated list copied elsewhere.

Best Value
Omega 3 for Dogs - Fish Oil for Skin & Coat Health, Itch & Allergy Support
  • Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
  • Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
  • Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
  • Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
  • Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.

The Society also maintains an encyclopedia entry on the state-emblem system at State Emblems. These references explain why adoption dates span generations: Oklahoma added its earliest animal symbols in the mid-20th century and continued creating narrower categories, such as state raptor and state pet, later.

Symbols that are not part of this 15-item animal count

Oklahoma also recognizes prehistoric symbols. The state dinosaur is Acrocanthosaurus atokensis, and the state fossil is Saurophaganax maximus. They are official symbols, but they are not included in the 15 current animal-related categories listed above. Adding them would answer a broader question about every animal and prehistoric symbol, not the specific 15-designation count.

There is also a terminology difference in public materials. The Historical Society’s symbol page calls the bison the state animal, while a 2024 license-plate announcement uses “state mammal” when discussing the bison among Oklahoma imagery. For the 15-item taxonomy, “state animal” is the clearer category label because it matches the Society’s current list.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Using the list for identification and study

For a school project, museum label or family nature activity, write each entry as designation — animal or group. For example, “state bird — scissor-tailed flycatcher” and “game bird — wild turkey” communicate more accurately than a flat list of bird names. The same format keeps the two horse categories and the rescue-animal pet category from being misunderstood.

The Oklahoma Historical Society provides a printable state-symbols coloring sheet that can support an introductory activity. It is an educational resource, not an additional official designation.

For a visual overview of the state’s broader imagery, Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell described a 2024 license-plate design as using “color and intentional symbology” to reference Oklahoma’s culture, history, original flag and state animals. That statement concerns the plate design; it does not change the legal list or add another animal category. The announcement is available at the lieutenant governor’s official release.

The short answer

Oklahoma’s state animal is the American bison. The full 15-item answer counts separate official categories: six mammal or horse-related entries plus the rescue-animal pet category, three bird categories, and one each for reptile, amphibian, fish, butterfly and insect. Keeping those labels attached to every name is the most accurate way to describe Oklahoma’s animal symbols.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

American bisonOklahoma state symbolsOklahoma wildlifestate animalsstate bird

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from The Den

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.