South Dakota State Flower and State Bird
Ring-Necked Pheasant ~ Phasianus colchicus
The American Ring-Necked Pheasant descends from a Chinese and an English species that were imported to the United States and interbred here. Pheasants are raised systematically on game farms and then set free. Consequently, they have spread throughout most of the northern United States. Because they provide a meat that is a delicacy, the Pheasant has become a sportsman’s delight. The Ring-Necked Pheasant, adept at skulking through low cover, presents a real challenge to the hunter.
Pasqueflower ~ Anemone patens
Changing fashions in botanical nomenclature are often a nuisance, but we can hardly regret the substitution of Anemone patens for Pulsatilla hirsutissima as the name of this delicate looking (but actually hardy) sun-loving rock plant of the Northwest. Pasque means Easter in French, and the Pasqueflower is thought to have been given its name either because it blooms in spring, or because dye made from the plant was used for Easter eggs.
From The Wildflowers of the 50 States U.S. stamps issued July 24, 1992:
South Dakota Wildflower - Pasqueflower
Art from the 50-stamp series, State Birds and Flowers,
issued April 14, 1982 simultaneously in all state capitals.
|