Is it just our imagination, or are New Mexico’s state animals particularly proud of their designation? (Answer: it’s probably just our imagination). Still, they all do their part to reflect the wide range of wildlife in the state.Animal: Black Bear — The black bear, while the smallest of all North American species, is by no means less majestic. Plus, “smallest” still means they can reach weights of 880 pounds in the wild, and 1,000 pounds in captivity. Most of their food comes from trees and bushes, although they also enjoy insects, salmon, and deer and elk.Bird: Roadrunner The Greater Roadrunner is the species found in the United Statesthe Lesser Roadrunner inhabits Central and South America. They’ve gained the nickname “snake killer” for their habit of killing rattlesnakes, along with scorpions, centipedes, and millipedes. Braver roadrunners will even take down small mammals by beating them in the back of the neck with their beak.Reptile: New Mexico Whiptail Lizard This lizard is notable for its parthenogenesis, or asexual reproduction. The species is all female, and produces up to four eggs at a time without mating. You can recognize them by their distinctive pattern of seven yellow stripes with light spots in between.Amphibian: New Mexico Spadefoot Toad Named for the projections off their hind legs which they use for digging, the New Mexico Spadefoot is a nocturnal species which can secrete a peanutty scent when threatened. Don’t get too close, though, as it can cause tearing and runny noses.Insect: Tarantula Hawk Wasp The wasp is named not for its similarity to a tarantula (or hawk), but because the large spider is its primary prey. Luckily for the wasp, its sting is considered one of the most painful in the world among insects. These wasps will actually lay their eggs on paralyzed tarantulasthe wasp larva later eats the spider alive.Fish: New Mexico Cutthroat Trout — Highly sought after by fly fishermen, the cutthroat trout can reach 40 inches and exist in different locations across the country. Its name comes from coloration on its lower jaw.Butterfly: Sandia Hairstreak This butterfly was made a state insect in 2003, and is only found in certain locations in the southeastern U.S. The bill which made the butterfly official commented on how it does not migrate from the state and can be found at any time of the year.