Actually, it was yesterday (January 25), but as usual I’m a little behind! But anyhow… in 2017 the National Day Calendar was started to celebrate each state in the order that they entered the Union. Florida was the 27th state. Each state’s National Day celebrates that state’s history, people, foods, and cultures. For my part, I’m going to celebrate by sharing a few images that are iconic Florida to me.

The zebra long wing butterfly is the state butterfly of Florida.

Gopher tortoises are the only tortoise native to the eastern United States. They are the state tortoise of Florida.

Live Oaks are a classic southern tree, and although not native to only Florida by any means, they are very common here. This pair, in a pasture near my home, are beautifully iconic Florida.

Black vultures are a threatened species that are pretty common here in north central Florida, but in trouble in most of the United States.

Farming, and especially cattle are very big business in central Florida.

Even though there aren’t any palm trees or beaches in this shot, I had to include one of Florida’s gorgeous sunrises!

Hope you enjoyed a glimpse of Florida in honor of National Florida Day!