Illinois State Symbols
According to Watchtutorials, Illinois has a few nicknames, the most popular being the “Prairie State.” This nickname was given to Illinois in the early 1800s because of its vast grassy plains and prairies. The nickname is fitting since more than 60% of Illinois’ land is covered in rolling farmland, flat terrain, and lush grassland. Many people associate the Prairie State with a wide range of activities such as hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. As a result, many people visit Illinois just to take part in these activities. The nickname also reflects the state’s rich history and its strong agricultural industry. In addition to being known as the Prairie State, Illinois is also lovingly referred to as the “Land of Lincoln,” due to its association with Abraham Lincoln. He was born in Kentucky but raised in Illinois from an early age. He lived there until he became President of the United States in 1861. According to Beautyphoon, this nickname celebrates his legacy and his impact on American politics and history.
State Bird
The state bird of Illinois is the Northern Cardinal, otherwise known as the Redbird. This vibrant songbird is recognized by its unique crest and its bright red feathers. It has a black mask around its eyes and a thick bill that is curved downward. The male cardinal is more vibrantly colored than the female, with bright red feathers on its wings, tail, and head. The female cardinal has duller red feathers and grayish-brown feathers on her wings and tail. Both male and female cardinals have white patches on their wings and tails. Cardinals are usually found in wooded areas near open fields or along roadsides, where they feed on seeds, insects, fruits, and berries. They also visit backyards for birdseed or suet feeders. Cardinals usually live in pairs during the breeding season but may be found in small flocks during winter months as they search for food together.
State Flower
The state flower of Illinois is the native wildflower known as the violet. This delicate little flower has been a symbol of Illinois since 1908, when it was officially adopted following a campaign by schoolchildren across the state. The violet is a hardy perennial that blooms from late March to early June, depending on the weather. It can be found growing in moist woodlands and along roadsides. The flowers have five petals, usually ranging from deep purple to light lavender in color, although some varieties may be white or even yellowish-green. The plant typically grows to about six inches tall and features heart-shaped leaves that are fuzzy and grayish-green in hue. Violets are often found growing alongside other wildflowers such as daisies, black-eyed Susans and buttercups. In addition to its beauty, the violet has been prized for centuries for its medicinal qualities, said to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can aid with sore throats and headaches.
State Tree
The state tree of Illinois is the White Oak (Quercus alba). This majestic tree stands tall and strong, reaching heights of up to 80 feet and living for centuries. Its trunk is massive, growing up to four feet in diameter, while its branches spread out wide, providing ample shade. The leaves of the White Oak are five to nine inches long and have a lobed shape with sharp points. They are dark green and glossy on top, but light green and fuzzy underneath. The bark of the White Oak is grayish-brown in color and deeply furrowed into ridges that run vertically up the trunk. In autumn, the leaves turn a golden yellow color before falling off in late fall or early winter. The acorns are oval-shaped and grow in clusters on long stems that hang from the branches. These acorns provide food for many animals (squirrels, deer, birds) during winter months when other food sources are scarce.
