What is the official state animal of Oklahoma?

The official state animal of Oklahoma is the American Bison. This designation reflects the historical significance of the bison to Indigenous peoples and early settlers in the region. Bison were crucial to the livelihoods of many Native American tribes, providing food, shelter, and materials for tools. The choice of the bison as a state symbol emphasizes Oklahoma’s rich cultural heritage and the importance of the animal in the state’s ecology and economy, especially as the bison is known for its strength and resilience. Additionally, the bison is a symbol of the American plains and represents a connection to the state's vast prairies and natural history.

In contrast, the American Eagle and the Bald Eagle, while significant national symbols, are not designated as state animals, and the Prairie Dog, although an important species within Oklahoma, does not carry the same historical and cultural weight as the American Bison does.