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The official state animal of South Carolina is the white‑tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), designated in 1972.
- Designated by Act Number 1335 (1972) of the SC legislature
- Scientific name: *Odocoileus virginianus*
- Recognized for its distinctive white underside of the tail
- The state animal of South Carolina is the white‑tailed deer.
- It was designated in 1972 by the state legislature.
- Its scientific name is Odocoileus virginianus.
- Minor variation in the cited act number (some sources list Act 1335, one mention Act 1334), but all agree the designation occurred in 1972.
South Carolina’s State Animal
The white‑tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is the official state animal of South Carolina. The South Carolina General Assembly enacted Act Number 1335 in 1972 to make the deer the state’s designated animal1.
Why the White‑tailed Deer?
- Ubiquitous presence – The species thrives throughout the state’s forests, woodlands, and coastal plains.
- Distinctive feature – A white underside on its tail that flashes when the deer is alarmed, making it easily recognizable.
- Cultural and ecological importance – It is a popular game animal and a key part of South Carolina’s natural heritage, often featured in state tourism and educational materials23.
Additional State Symbols (for context)
- State bird: Carolina wren
- State dog: Boykin Spaniel
- State heritage work animal: Mule
These symbols together showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, but the white‑tailed deer holds the unique title of state animal4.
References
1 South Carolina’s state insect – SC State House (official legislative record)1
2 State Symbols and Icons: Animals and Insects – Discover South Carolina2
3 White‑tailed Deer State Animal – StatesymbolsUSA.org3
4 List of South Carolina state symbols – Wikipedia4