Welcome to the Geotoys State Facts page for our Southwest GeoPuzzle.

Here we’ll explore: 

• State Capitals
• State birds and flowers (you’ll see them on your map)
• Animals and plants that live in the state
• National Parks Services locations within the state
• AND share information on “easter eggs” you may have spotted as you pieced your map together. 

 

Let’s go!

 

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Arizona

State Capitol: Phoenix

Established as the state capital in 1889, Phoenix is Arizona's largest city and serves as its political, cultural, and economic hub. 

State Bird: The Cactus Wren

The Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) was designated as Arizona's state bird in 1931. Known for its distinctive white eye stripe and loud, raspy call, this bird thrives in desert environments, often building nests in cacti.

State Flower: The Saguaro Cactus Blossom

The Saguaro Cactus Blossom (Carnegiea gigantea), adopted as the state flower in 1931, features creamy white petals and a yellow center. Blooming in May and June, these nocturnal flowers are pollinated by bats and are emblematic of the Sonoran Desert.

Plants & Animals

Arizona's ecosystems range from arid deserts to pine-covered mountains. The Palo Verde (Parkinsonia florida and Parkinsonia microphylla), designated as the state tree in 1954, is known for its green bark and vibrant yellow flowers. The state's deserts are home to various cacti species, including the iconic saguaro and prickly pear, while higher elevations support forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir.

Mammals include the Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), designated as the state mammal, which is a nocturnal relative of the raccoon. Bird species such as the cactus wren, roadrunner, and various raptors are commonly observed. Reptiles like the Gila monster and various rattlesnake species inhabit the desert regions. Aquatic species in Arizona's rivers and lakes include the Apache Trout (Oncorhynchus apache), the state fish, which is native to the state's clear, cool streams.

NPS SItes

Grand Canyon National Park
Petrified Forest National Park
Saguaro National Park
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Tumacácori National Historical Park
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Easter eggs: Grand Canyon & Monument Valley

The Grand Canyon National Park, located in northern Arizona, is a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, showcasing layered rock formations that tell the story of Earth’s geological past. As one of Arizona’s most iconic landmarks, it attracts millions of visitors each year who come to experience its vast landscapes, hiking trails, and stunning vistas.

Monument Valley, located in northeastern Arizona within the Navajo Nation, is renowned for its towering red sandstone buttes that define the classic Western landscape. As one of Arizona’s most iconic natural wonders, it holds deep cultural significance for the Navajo people and showcases the state’s breathtaking desert scenery.

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New Mexico

State Capitol: Santa Fe

Established as the state capital in 1610, Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States. Renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene, the city reflects a blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. 

State Bird: The Greater Roadrunner

The Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus), designated as the state bird in 1949, is known locally as the "Chaparral Bird." This fast-running ground cuckoo is well-adapted to the arid landscapes of New Mexico and is celebrated in local folklore and culture.

State Flower: The Yucca Flower

The Yucca Flower (Yucca glauca), adopted as the state flower in 1927, is notable for its tall spikes of white or greenish flowers. The yucca plant thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of New Mexico, symbolizing the state's rugged beauty and resilience.

Plants & Animals

New Mexico's ecosystems range from desert lowlands to alpine mountains. The Two-Needle Piñon Pine (Pinus edulis), designated as the state tree in 1949, is prevalent in the state's woodlands and is valued for its edible seeds, known as piñon nuts. The state's wildflower populations are rich and varied, with species such as the Indian paintbrush, desert marigold, and various cacti contributing to the vibrant landscape.

The American Black Bear (Ursus americanus), designated as the state animal, inhabits the forested regions of the state. Bird species such as the greater roadrunner, turkey vulture, and various raptors are commonly observed. Reptiles like the New Mexico whiptail lizard, designated as the state reptile, are adapted to the desert environments. Aquatic species in New Mexico's rivers and lakes include the Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarki virginalis), the state fish, which is native to the cold mountain streams of the region.

NPS Websites

Carlsbad Caverns National Park
White Sands National Park
Bandelier National Monument
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Pecos National Historical Park
Aztec Ruins National Monument
El Malpais National Monument
El Morro National Monument
Fort Union National Monument
Capulin Volcano National Monument
Petroglyph National Monument

Easter eggs: Carlsbad Canyon, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Sandia Tramway, Adobe Architecture & Area 51

Carlsbad Caverns, located in southeastern New Mexico, is home to over 119 limestone caves, including the massive Big Room, one of the largest underground chambers in North America. As one of New Mexico’s most famous natural wonders, it showcases stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and a thriving bat colony that draws visitors from around the world.

The annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, filling the sky with hundreds of colorful balloons each October. As one of New Mexico’s most iconic events, it celebrates the state’s rich aviation history and draws visitors from around the globe for breathtaking mass ascensions and ballooning competitions.

The Sandia Peak Tramway, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the longest aerial tramways in the world, carrying passengers 2.7 miles up the rugged Sandia Mountains. As one of New Mexico’s top attractions, it offers breathtaking views of the Rio Grande Valley and showcases the state's stunning high-desert landscapes.

Adobe architecture, deeply rooted in New Mexico’s history, is characterized by its sun-dried mud bricks, rounded edges, and earthy tones, blending seamlessly with the desert landscape. As a defining feature of cities like Santa Fe and Taos, it reflects the influence of Native American and Spanish colonial traditions, making it an enduring symbol of the state’s cultural heritage.

Area 51, a top-secret military facility in the Nevada desert, has long been shrouded in mystery and speculation about UFOs and advanced aircraft testing. As one of Nevada’s most infamous sites, it has fueled conspiracy theories and pop culture fascination, despite its official role in military research and development.

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Oklahoma

State Capitol: Oklahoma City

Established as the state capital in 1910, Oklahoma City replaced Guthrie following a statewide vote. 

State Bird: The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus) was designated as the state bird in 1951. Known for its elegant long tail and acrobatic flight, this bird is commonly seen during Oklahoma's warmer months.

State Flower: The Oklahoma Rose

The Oklahoma Rose (Rosa ‘Oklahoma’), adopted in 2004, is a hybrid tea rose celebrated for its deep red color and sweet fragrance.

Plants & Animals

Oklahoma's diverse ecosystems include prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. The Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), the state tree, displays striking pink blossoms in spring and is common in forests and urban landscapes. Prairie landscapes are dominated by grasses such as big bluestem and Indian grass, interspersed with vibrant wildflowers like Indian blanket (Gaillardia pulchella), the state wildflower. In wetter regions, cattails and willows thrive, while oak, hickory, and pecan trees are abundant in forested areas.

The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is one of the most commonly seen mammals, along with armadillos and bobcats. Bird species such as the scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), the state bird, and the red-tailed hawk are prevalent across the state. Reptiles include the ornate box turtle (Terrapene ornata), designated as the state reptile, and various snake species like the western diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox). Oklahoma’s rivers and reservoirs host aquatic species like channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), and crappie, which are popular among anglers.

NPS Sites

Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
Oklahoma City National Memorial
Santa Fe National Historic Trail
Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program

Easter eggs: Oklahoma City National Memorial, Blue Whale of Catoosa

The Oklahoma City National Memorial, located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, honors the victims, survivors, and first responders of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. As a powerful symbol of resilience, it features the Reflecting Pool, Field of Empty Chairs, and the Survivor Tree, preserving the memory of one of Oklahoma’s most tragic events.

The Blue Whale of Catoosa, located along Route 66 in Oklahoma, is a giant, smiling whale sculpture that has become a beloved roadside attraction. As one of Oklahoma’s most recognizable landmarks, it reflects the state’s rich history of quirky Americana and the golden age of road trips.

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Texas

State Capitol: Austin

Established as the state capital in 1839, Austin is Texas’s fourth-largest city and serves as its political and cultural hub.

State Bird: The Northern Mockingbird

The Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), designated as the state bird in 1927, is celebrated for its ability to mimic the calls of other birds and sounds.

State Flower: The Bluebonnet

The Bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis), adopted as the state flower in 1901, carpets fields and highways across Texas in a vibrant display each spring.

Plants & Animals

Texas’s ecosystems range from deserts to pine forests and coastal plains. The Pecan Tree (Carya illinoinensis), the state tree, is valued for its nuts and shade, thriving along riverbanks and in orchards. Wildflowers like bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and Texas prickly pear cacti bloom throughout the state, adding splashes of color to the landscape. In East Texas, piney woods feature species like loblolly pine and sweetgum trees, while the desert regions host yuccas and mesquite trees.

The Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), designated as the state small mammal, is an iconic symbol of the Lone Star State. Bird species such as the northern mockingbird, great blue heron, and black-capped vireo inhabit Texas's diverse landscapes. Reptiles include the Texas horned lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum), the state reptile, which is adapted to arid environments. Aquatic life includes the Guadalupe Bass (Micropterus treculii), the state fish, which is found in the clear rivers of the Texas Hill Country.

NPS Sites

Big Bend National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Padre Island National Seashore
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Fort Davis National Historic Site
Chamizal National Memorial
Amistad National Recreation Area
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail

Easter eggs: Big Bend, Texas Longhorn, Fisher with a Grouper, The Alamo & The Houston Space Center

Big Bend National Park, located in West Texas, is a vast and rugged landscape where the Chihuahuan Desert, the Rio Grande, and towering canyons converge. As one of Texas’ most breathtaking natural treasures, it offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and some of the darkest night skies in the country.

The Texas Longhorn, an iconic breed known for its distinctive, wide horns, symbolizes the rugged spirit and ranching heritage of Texas. As a living piece of the state’s history, these cattle played a key role in the cattle drives of the Old West and remain a proud emblem of Texas culture today.

The grouper, a large and powerful reef fish, is found in the Gulf of Mexico, making it an important species for Texas’ coastal waters and fishing industry. As a prized catch among anglers, groupers contribute to the state's seafood economy and highlight the biodiversity of Texas' marine ecosystems.

The Alamo, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a historic mission and battleground where Texan defenders fought for independence against Mexico in 1836. As one of Texas’ most revered landmarks, it stands as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the state’s fight for freedom.

The Space Center Houston, located in Houston, Texas, is NASA’s official visitor center and a hub for space exploration history and innovation. As home to Mission Control, it showcases Texas’ vital role in human spaceflight, inspiring visitors with astronaut exhibits, spacecraft displays, and interactive experiences.

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