ALABAMA - Various nicknames have long known Alabama throughout its history: Cotton State, Heart of Dixie (used to describe southern states below the Mason-Dixon Line), Lizard State due to an abundance of lizards along streams, Yellowhammer State or other lesser-known terms that reflect its history or culture, such as Iron Bowl State.
These monikers often reflect Alabama's rich cultural legacy, while others refer specifically to professional or collegiate sports leagues or teams within it, like Yellowhammer State.
Lizards in the state of Alabama have also become an important symbol for the state’s wildlife conservation efforts, with many endangered species found here. The term “Lizard State” reflects this aspect of Alabama’s natural environment and is an important reminder to protect and conserve the state's wide array of native animals.
The real name for Alabama is the Yellowhammer State, which is derived from the state bird, the Northern Flicker, also known as the Yellowhammer.
