Facts about Nevada

Learn facts about Nevada for kids.

Last week, we confidently shared essential facts about... Nebraska. This week, we're excited to share fascinating facts about Nevada! Get ready to learn about the state's flag, its official bird, and many more intriguing details.

Did you know Nevada was the thirty-sixth state to join the United States? During the American Civil War, Nevada officially became a state on October 31, 1864, making it one of the last states to enter the Union in that era. This timing was significant as it helped bolster the Union's political power.

Located in the western region of the United States, Nevada is known for its diverse landscapes, which include vast deserts, mountain ranges, and vibrant cities. The state shares its borders with five other states: Idaho to the north, Utah to the east, Arizona to the southeast, California to the west, and Oregon to the northwest. 

Nevada is the seventh-largest state in the country, covering an area of approximately 110,577 square miles. This expansive land area contributes to its classification as one of the larger states in the United States. 

According to the most recent estimates, approximately 3,143,991 people reside in Nevada, reflecting a dynamic population influenced by the state's renowned tourism industry, which includes attractions such as Las Vegas and Reno, as well as its breathtaking natural parks, including Lake Tahoe and Red Rock Canyon. The population density varies significantly, with most residents concentrated in urban areas while large portions of the state remain sparsely populated.

 

Nevada famous person alert:

Calvin Forrest Quate was born in Baker, Nevada. He invented the atomic force microscope and taught Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering at Stanford University.

 To learn more about Calvin Forrest Quate, CLICK HERE.

Make sure to get permission from your parent or caregiver before clicking on any links.

Facts about Nevada:

Facts about Ladybugs

Ladybug Facts

Today, we are going to learn about the cute and tiny ladybugs! Did you know that ladybugs are actually a beetle? Yep, that is correct! Ladybugs are from the beetle family. In North America, we call ladybugs, as you may have guessed, ladybugs! Can you guess what they call ladybugs in Great Britain? In Great Britain, they are called ladybirds.

 

What is your favorite type of beetle?

 

With your parent/caretaker’s permission, you can click on the link below to see some pictures of ladybugs:

Click here

 

 

Facts about ladybugs:

1. The scientific name for a ladybug is Coccinellidae. Here is a list of names of different types of ladybugs:

• Convergent lady beetle
• Eyed ladybug
• Large leaf-eating ladybug
• Twenty-spotted lady beetle
• Two-spot ladybird

2. There are over 5,000 different types of ladybugs, and they live in different places on all continents except Antarctica.

3. Red with black spots is the most common color of the ladybug, but ladybugs come in many other colors, such as yellow, orange, ash grey, metallic blue, black, and various others.

4. The headless ladybug is one of the rarest types of ladybugs. It is not really headless. Like a turtle, it can tuck its head inside its body so you can’t see it.

5. Most ladybugs are omnivores. They eat plants and insects. 

6. A group of ladybugs are called a loveliness. A baby ladybug is called a larva.

7. Ladybugs are cold-blooded and need a lot of heat to survive. Ladybugs hibernate during the winter months.

8. Ladybugs are primarily diurnal. They do most of their food hunting and mating during the daylight hours while the sun is out.

 

 

Share a cool fact about ladybugs with us?

 

 

 

Get your free ladybug printable worksheet here:

 Ladybug coloring sheet

 

Visit my printable section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

 

 

 

Books about ladybugs:

1. It's a Good Thing There Are Ladybugs by Joanne Mattern

2. Ten Little Ladybugs by Melanie Gerth

3. Hide-and-Seek Ladybugs by Paul Bright

4. The Wonderful World of Ladybugs by Mimi Jones

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

 

Short story alert:

A ladybug once didn’t know what to do, for she got caught inside an old dreadful shoe. She tried to climb up the inside of the shoe. But she couldn’t figure out just what to do. She thought maybe if she went to the dark end of the shoe, she’d find her way out, but no such luck. She sat there in the dark thinking, how will I get out? As she was thinking, she saw the light at the other end of that dreadful old shoe. So, she started crawling back towards the light. Once she reached the back end of that shoe, she crawled up and made her way to the top of the shoe. She finally figured out just what to do. She opened her wings and started to fly up high towards the sky!  THE END.

Thank you for reading my post!! “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”-Dalai Lama

Stop by tomorrow for more cool facts!

Mimi is the author of the JOEY SAVES THE DAY! book series and other titles. She loves learning, reading, drawing, and writing. 

Facts about Nebraska

Learn facts about Nebraska for kids.

Hey everyone! Last week, we shared some interesting facts about... Montana. We’re excited to share some fun facts about Nebraska with you this week! Get ready to learn about the state flag, the state bird, and many other nifty tidbits. Join us on this journey of discovery!

Did you know Nebraska was the thirty-seventh (37th) state to join the United States? Nebraska officially became a state on March 1, 1867, after a long process of settlement and development in the region. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Nebraska is known for its diverse landscapes, including rolling plains, fertile farmland, and the scenic Sandhills.

The state is bordered by six other states: South Dakota to the north, Iowa to the east, Missouri to the southeast, Kansas to the south, Colorado to the southwest, and Wyoming to the west. This central location makes Nebraska a key part of the nation’s agricultural heartland.

Nebraska is the sixteenth (16th) largest state in the country, covering an area of approximately 77,358 square miles. It is one of the larger states in terms of land size. The population is around 1,963,692 people, and residents enjoy a mix of urban and rural lifestyles. Major cities like Omaha and Lincoln offer vibrant culture and economic opportunities, while the vast countryside showcases the state’s rich agricultural tradition and natural beauty.

 

Nebraska famous person alert:

Robert Gibson was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and was a professional baseball pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played for seventeen seasons.

To learn more about Robert Gibson, CLICK HERE.

Make sure that your parent or guardian gives you permission before clicking on any links.

Facts about Nebraska:

Facts about Cuckoo birds

Cuckoo Bird Facts

Have you heard of the cuckoo bird before? Cuckoos are a medium-sized bird. Cuckoo birds are where the cuckoo clock got its name from. Have you ever seen or heard of a cuckoo clock before? A Cuckoo clock has a Cuckoo bird that comes out of its little house at the top of the clock every hour and makes a Cuckoo singing/chirping sound.

 

What is your favorite type of bird?

 

With your parent/caretaker’s permission, you can click the links below to see Cuckoo Birds and Clocks.

You can see Cuckoo clocks here: Click here

You can see Cuckoo birds here: Click here

 

Facts about Cuckoo birds:

1. There are over 125 species of birds in the Cuckoo bird family. Roadrunner birds are part of the Cuckoo bird family. The different species of cuckoo birds can be found living in places worldwide, except for Antarctica. Here is a list of some of the Cuckoo birds:

• Channel-billed
• Common
• Guira
• Himalayan
• Lesser ground
• Little bronze
• Mangrove
• Oriental
• Striped
• Yellow-billed

2. Most cuckoo birds are insectivores. Cuckoo birds eat mainly insects. They love to eat hairy caterpillars!

3. The channel-billed cuckoo bird is one of the largest cuckoo birds. It can weigh as much as two (2lbs.) pounds, sometimes more or less. It can be up to 27 inches long, sometimes more or less.

4. The little bronze cuckoo bird is one of the smallest cuckoo birds. It can weigh as much as a ½ ounce, sometimes more or less. It can be up to six (6in.) inches long, sometimes more or less.

5. Some cuckoo birds, such as the common cuckoo bird, lay their own eggs in other birds' nests so they do not have to take care of them. Common cuckoo birds are known as Brood parasites, which means that they rely on other birds to take care of their eggs and raise their baby birds.

6. A group of cuckoo birds is called an asylum or a family of cuckoos.

7. Cuckoo birds are migratory birds. They migrate/fly to warmer areas during the cold season.

8. The Cuckoo bird sounds like coo-coo, just like a cuckoo clock!

 

Share a cool fact about Cuckoo birds with us?

Get your free cuckoo bird printable ABC worksheet here:

 Cuckoo Bird ABC ORDER worksheet

 

Visit my printable section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

 

 

 

Books about Cuckoo birds:

1. The Cuckoo Bird by Judy Corbalis

2. The Cuckoo Bird by Carol Krueger

3. The Cuckoos (Bird Families of the World) by Robert B. Payne

4. Cuckoos of the World by Johannes Erritzoe

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

 

Short story alert:

There once was a Cuckoo bird named Coo-coo. Coo-coo loved to fly from tree to tree. Coo-coo would fly down to the ground to search for food. Coo-coo’s favorite food to eat was very hairy caterpillars. Sometimes, it was hard to find the caterpillars, but that did not stop Coo-coo from searching for those hairy caterpillars to eat. Coo-coo would search for hours and hours for just one of those hairy caterpillars. Some days, Coo-coo would find many hairy caterpillars; some days, Coo-coo would only get one or two. By the end of the day, Coo-coo was so tired from searching for those hairy little caterpillars to eat that Coo-coo would sleep peacefully in its nest. Coo-coo would wake up well-rested and ready to search for more hairy caterpillars to eat. THE END!

 

Thank you for reading my post!! “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”-Dalai Lama.

Check these free printables out:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/printables.html

Books I have written:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/blog-page_16.html

Feature your book here:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/book-of-day.html

Mimi is the author of the "Joey Saves the Day!" book series and other titles. She loves learning, reading, drawing, and writing. She is a homeschooling mother of two children and has two adult children who have already left the nest.

Facts about Montana

Learn facts about Montana for kids.

Last week, we shared some eye-opening facts about... Missouri. This week, we celebrate the beauty of Montana by sharing inspiring facts about its state flag, bird, and other remarkable features.

Did you know that Montana was the forty-first state to join the Union? Indeed, it officially became a state on November 8, 1889, after a lengthy process of exploration and settlement that began in the early 19th century. Montana is situated in the northwestern region of the United States and is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and plains.

This vast state is bordered by four states: North Dakota to the northeast, South Dakota to the southeast, Wyoming to the south, and Idaho to the west. In addition to its state borders, Montana shares an international boundary with Canada to the north, making it a unique point of interest for cross-border travel and trade.

Montana is the fourth-largest state in the United States, covering approximately 147,040 square miles. Its diverse geography features parts of the Rocky Mountains, extensive grasslands, and numerous rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.

According to the latest data, Montana has approximately 1,104,271 residents. The population reflects a rich cultural tapestry, with a mix of Native American heritage and influences from early European settlers. This combination of history and natural beauty makes Montana a remarkable place to explore and live.

 

Montana famous person alert:

Did you know that John Robert Horner, commonly known as Jack Horner, was born in Shelby, Montana? He is an American paleontologist who specializes in the study of dinosaurs. A paleontologist is a scientist who examines fossils. Jack Horner is best known for being a technical advisor on the first five Jurassic Park movies.

Facts about Montana:

Facts about ducks

Ducks

How many of you have heard about ducks before? Did you know ducks come from the same family as geese and swans? There are over 125 species of waterfowl throughout the world. Ducks are in the waterfowl family. All waterfowl love water, and most of them have webbed feet! With your parent/caretaker’s permission, google pictures of the ducks and see how cool they are! 

This is an excellent website to read all about ducks: 

Click here

 

What is your favorite kind of duck?

 

Facts about ducks:

1. There are over 25 different types of ducks. Here is a list of some of them:

• American Wigeon
• Barrow's Goldeneye
• Cinnamon Teal
• Eurasian Wigeon
• Harlequin Duck
• Long-tailed Duck
• Mallard
• Ring-necked Duck
• Surf Scoter
• Wood Duck

2. Ducks are omnivores. Omnivores means that they eat both vegetation and meat. Ducks eat grasses, aquatic plants, seeds, insects, worms, small crustaceans, and other vegetation.

3. One of the most enormous ducks is the male Muscovy duck. The male Muscovy duck can grow to about 30 inches long or more. The male Muscovy duck can weigh up to 15 pounds. 

4. The little Green-winged Teal is one of the most minor types of duck. It can grow to about 15 inches long and weigh up to a pound, more or less.

5. Ducks are very social and love to be in large groups. A group of ducks is called a flock of ducks, a raft of ducks, a team of ducks, or a waddling of ducks.

6. A baby duck is called a duckling. A male duck is called a drake. A female duck is called a hen.

7. Female ducks nest near the water but in a very sheltered area of vegetation. Some ducks nest on the ground, a hole in a tree, and many other places.

8. Ducks are both nocturnal and diurnal. They are active during both night and daytime hours.

 

 

Share a fact about ducks with us?

 

 

Get your free duck printable worksheet here:

 Ducks ABC worksheet

 

Visit my printables section for a wide selection of worksheets and coloring sheets!

 

 

 

Books about ducks:

1. National Geographic Kids: Ducks by Jennifer Szymanski

2. Where Are the Ducks? by Jeffrey Bullard

3. Lucky Ducklings by Eva Moore

4. Waterfowl of Eastern North America by Chris G. Earley

5. HEWWO! by Mimi Jones

Parents/caretakers, be sure books are child-friendly before reading them to your child/children.

 

Short story alert:

There once was a young duck named Luck. He was a lucky little ducky. You see, one day, he got lost. He wondered too far from the water’s edge. He was lost in some very thick and tall grass. He was too little to see over the vegetation. Instead of going back towards the water, Luck, the duck, kept going further into the thick and tall grass. Luck spotted a very long-necked goose. Luck, the duck waddled over to the goose and asked if the goose could help him get back to the water? The goose said, “Hi, my name is Lucey.” My friends call me Lucey the goosey. Lucey said, “What is your name?” Luck said, “My name is Luck.” Luck said, “Hi, Lucey, can you help me get back to the water?” and Lucey said, “Sure, I will help you.” Lucey said, “The water appears to be that way; just turn yourself around, keep going straight, and you will soon find the water’s edge.” Luck did as Lucey said and soon found his way to the water. THE END!

 

 

Thank you for reading my post!! “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”-Dalai Lama.

Check these free printables out:

http://www.joeysavestheday.com/p/printables.html

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Facts about Missouri

Learn facts about Missouri for kids.

Last week, we inspired our community by sharing impactful facts about Mississippi. This week, we’re excited to share fascinating facts about Missouri, from its vibrant state flag to its beloved state bird and more. Join us on this journey of discovery as we count down to sharing insights from all 50 states.

Did you know Missouri is the twenty-fourth state to join the Union? It officially entered the union on August 10, 1821, following a process of statehood that included several significant events in its early history. Missouri is situated in the Midwestern region of the country, characterized by its diverse landscapes, which include rolling hills, rivers, and dense forests.

Geographically, Missouri is bordered by eight states: to the north lies Iowa; to the east, you’ll find Illinois and Kentucky; to the south are Tennessee and Arkansas; and to the west, Oklahoma and Kansas. Additionally, Missouri shares a prominent boundary with the Mississippi River, one of the longest rivers in the United States, which plays a crucial role in the state's ecology and economy.

In terms of size, Missouri ranks as the twenty-first largest state in the country, covering approximately 69,715 square miles. This makes it one of the larger states in the U.S. The population of Missouri is around 6,168,187 residents, making it a vibrant region with a rich cultural tapestry and a diverse economy. The state is renowned for its historical significance, including its pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States, and it remains a vital part of the nation's landscape today.

 

Missouri famous person alert:

Did you know that Maya Angelou was born in St. Louis, Missouri? She was a poet, author, and civil rights activist best known for her seven autobiographies. An autobiography is a written account of a person's life that they have written about themselves. The first book in this series is titled *I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings*.

 

Facts about Missouri:

1. Missouri is a state rich in history and culture, recognized for its significant contributions to American heritage. Among its notable highlights are the Pony Express, a mail service that operated in the 1860s and became famous for its speedy delivery across the western frontier; the fertile farmlands that stretch across its landscape, providing vital agricultural products; and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which embarked from St. Louis in 1804, exploring the newly acquired western territories of the United States.

The state is affectionately nicknamed the "Show Me State," reflecting the Missourian's reputation for being straightforward and skeptical. Other popular nicknames include the "Ozark State," named after the picturesque Ozark Mountains that attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, and the "Mother of the West," acknowledging its historical role as a launch point for westward expansion.

Missouri's state motto, "Salus populi suprema lex esto," translates from Latin to "The welfare of the people is the supreme law." This motto encapsulates the state's commitment to prioritizing the needs and well-being of its residents. It was officially adopted on January 22, 1822, and remains a guiding principle for governance in the state. 

To reference the state in writing, the standard abbreviation is MO, which is commonly used in postal addresses and official documents. Missouri is not just a place on the map; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and community.

2. The capital of Missouri is Jefferson City, which was designated as the state capital in 1821, following Missouri's admission to the Union. The city is named in honor of Thomas Jefferson, who served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809 and is known for his role in authoring the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson City is centrally located along the Missouri River and plays a crucial role in the state's government and politics. It has an estimated population of approximately 42,670 residents, reflecting a diverse community that contributes to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including the Missouri State Capitol building, which showcases stunning architecture and serves as a hub for state legislative activities.

3. The state bird of Missouri is the Eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis), which was officially designated on March 30, 1927. This charming songbird is widely recognized for its striking and vibrant coloration. The male Eastern bluebird displays a brilliant deep blue plumage on its back and wings, which can be captivating when caught in sunlight. In contrast, females tend to have a more subdued appearance, featuring softer shades of blue and brown.

One of the defining characteristics of the Eastern bluebird is its rich, reddish-brown or rust-colored throat, which contrasts nicely with its blue feathers. The bird's underbelly is a soft, creamy white, adding to its overall elegance. Eastern bluebirds are not only visually stunning but also have a melodious song that can be heard in open fields and during the spring and summer months.

These birds prefer open habitats, such as meadows and farmlands, where they can often be seen perched on fence posts or tree branches, watching for insects and small fruit to eat. The Eastern bluebird symbolizes happiness and is cherished by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts across Missouri, making it a beloved representative of the state’s natural beauty.

4. The official state flower of Missouri is the Crataegus punctata, also known as the White Hawthorn blossom. This perennial tree or shrub typically reaches heights of 15 to 30 feet and is characterized by its dense, thorny branches and glossy green leaves. The White Hawthorn is particularly admired for its stunning clusters of white flowers, which bloom from late May to early June, creating a beautiful display across the Missouri landscape.

These blossoms enhance the state's aesthetic appeal and attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, thereby contributing to local biodiversity. The Crataegus punctata holds cultural significance and was officially designated as Missouri's state flower on March 16, 1923. This designation reflects the appreciation for the flower's beauty and presence in Missouri's natural environment.

5. Missouri’s state flag was officially adopted on March 22, 1913, and is a symbol of the state's history and identity. The flag is designed with three horizontal stripes: a vibrant red stripe at the top, a white stripe in the middle, and a deep blue stripe at the bottom. 

At the center of the flag is Missouri’s coat of arms, which features elements that represent the state's rich heritage. Surrounding the coat of arms are 24 stars, which signify Missouri's position as the 24th state to join the United States. This arrangement of stars highlights the pride and significance of Missouri’s entry into the Union. The flag exemplifies both the state’s values and the unity of its residents.

6.Missouri is known for its diverse agricultural output, with several key crops contributing to the state's economy and food supply. Among these crops are corn, which is widely used for both animal feed and ethanol production; cotton, essential for the textile industry; oats, often utilized for livestock feed and human consumption; rice, a staple food for many cultures; soybeans, which are a vital source of protein and oil; and wheat, a fundamental ingredient in bread and other baked goods. Each of these crops plays an important role in Missouri’s agricultural landscape, reflecting the state's rich farming heritage and commitment to sustainable practices.

7. Missouri is home to a variety of fascinating attractions worth visiting. One standout is the Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins, located in the picturesque town of Camdenton. This historic site features the remnants of a stone castle built in the early 20th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding Ozark landscape. 

Another must-visit destination is the Saint Louis Zoo, renowned for its commitment to conservation and education. This award-winning zoo houses over 15,000 animals from around the world, offering a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Additionally, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, situated near Springfield, is a significant historical site that commemorates a pivotal battle of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the well-preserved grounds, learn about the history of the conflict, and enjoy hiking trails amidst the scenic beauty of the area. Each of these locations offers a unique glimpse into Missouri’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

8. Missouri is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several notable animal species. Among these are bobcats, which are elusive predators known for their tufted ears and spotted fur. Beavers, recognized for their impressive dam-building skills, play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems. Brown bats, important for their insect-eating habits, can often be seen flitting about at dusk. 

Coyotes, adaptable and resourceful hunters, roam various habitats across the state. The eastern copperhead, a venomous snake with distinctive coloring, is another resident of Missouri’s forests and woodlands. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, are a common sight, especially in open fields, where they dig extensive burrows. Raccoons are often found near water sources, known for their dexterous front paws and masked faces. Red foxes, with their bushy tails and cunning nature, are a familiar presence in both rural and urban areas. Finally, the white-tailed deer, a symbol of the American wilderness, can be spotted gracefully roaming Missouri’s wooded landscapes and open fields. Together, these animals contribute to the region's rich biodiversity.

9. Missouri experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. On the hottest day ever recorded, temperatures reached 118 degrees Fahrenheit in Warsaw on July 14, 1954. On the flip side, the coldest it’s ever been hit a bone-chilling -40 degrees Fahrenheit in Warsaw on February 13, 1905.

 

Get your free printable Missouri worksheet here:

 

 

🏛️ Missouri – Build a Gateway Arch – ACTIVITY

Let’s visit Missouri!

Missouri is home to the Gateway Arch, a giant silver arch that welcomes travelers!

Activity Steps:

1. Use paper strips or shapes to build your own arch.

2. Decorate it with stars, clouds, or city buildings.

3. Measure how tall or wide your arch is.

4. Write a message that welcomes someone to your city.

Reflection:

What’s something you’ve built that made you feel proud?

Books about Missouri:

1. Good Night Missouri by Adam Gamble

2. Kids Love Missouri by George Zavatsky

3. My First Book About Missouri! by Carole Marsh

4. Little Missouri by Judy Young

Parents and caretakers should always choose books that are appropriate for their child or children before reading to them. It's essential for fostering a positive reading experience!

 

You can Click here to purchase the 50 States workbook on Amazon.

 

Be sure to tune in next week to discover some fascinating facts about Montana!