birds

Bird Name: Northern Cardinal
Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis

Appearance:
The Northern Cardinal, commonly referred to as a cardinal, boasts a vibrant red plumage which is instantly eye-catching. This garnet red coloration covers most of its body while the area around the beak is encircled by a distinctive black ‘mask’. The bird’s beak is a bright, contrasting orange, which is stout and conical in shape, perfect for seed cracking. Cardinals have dark, round eyes and their feathers are neat and smooth; giving them a well-tailored appearance. Female cardinals are not as vivid as their male counterparts. They sport a warm, tan coloration, with their wings, tail feathers, and crest showing somewhat reddish hues.

Size:
Cardinals are medium-sized birds. They grow to an average length of 21-23 cm (8.3 – 9.1 in) and weigh between 42 – 48 g (1.5 – 1.7 oz). Their wingspan is typically 25-31 cm (9.8 – 12.2 in).

Habitat & Distribution:
This bird species can be found across eastern and central North America, and as far south as Mexico and the U.S. states far west. They are highly adaptable to a wide variety of habitats but prefer woodland edges, shrublands, overgrown fields, parks, and suburban gardens.

Interesting Facts:
The Northern Cardinal is the official bird of seven U.S. states more than any other species. Their name ‘cardinal’ originates from the red-robed Catholic Cardinals. Unlike most female birds in North America, female cardinals sing, often from the nest.

Diet:
Cardinals are omnivorous. While seeds and fruits make up the significant portion of their diet, they also consume insects and snails.

Behavior & Sounds:
Cardinals are non-migratory birds; they reside in their chosen habitat all year long. Their nests are usually cup-shaped and made from twigs, bark strips, and lined with grasses. Cardinals are known for their rich, high-pitched singing, which is often described as “cheer cheer cheer” or “purty purty purty.” Both males and females engage in singing, especially in spring and summer.

Conservation Status:
The Northern Cardinal is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its wide distribution and large populations.

Lifespan:
The average lifespan of Northern Cardinals is 3-4 years in the wild. However, they have been known to live up to 15 years in ideal conditions.

Additional Notes:
In Spanish, the Northern Cardinal is often referred to as “Cardenal norteño”. Its bright red color has made it one of the most recognizable bird species and a popular choice for holiday symbolism in North America. Cardinals play a vital role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers and help control pest populations. They are quite people-friendly and can routinely visit bird feeders in their territory.