North Dakota State Flower and State Bird

Western Meadowlark ~ Sturnella neglecta
The Western Meadowlark differs from the eastern variety by being paler in the streaked brown of the upper plumage and having a narrower black breast crescent. Bright yellow spreads over the cheeks and colors the underparts of the bird. This popular bird is valued as a destroyer of harmful insects and weed seeds. Called the “Lark of the West,” he has strong legs and large feet, and makes good use of them by spending many hours each day walking through meadows and open fields in search of food.

Wild Prairie Rose ~ Rosa blanda
The Wild Prairie Rose, with stems from six to fifteen feet long, climbs over walls and fences. It also grows in the open as a bus, with the stems flowing upright for half their length, and then arching downward. Its flowers grow in a loose cluster, with more buds opening as the earlier blossoms fade. Prairie Roses are deep pink when they open, and change to white in full bloom. The Prairie Rose has underground stems, called rootstocks, which spread widely, running about a foot below the ground. With intervals between them, new shoots grow up providing a new Rosebush for the world’s enjoyment.

From The Wildflowers of the 50 States U.S. stamps issued July 24, 1992: