Bird Science - Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinal: A Vibrant and Familiar Songbird
The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), commonly known as the red cardinal or simply the cardinal, is a mid-sized songbird native to eastern North America. It is widely recognized for its striking red plumage in males and its distinctive crest, making it a beloved and familiar sight in many regions.
Physical Characteristics
The Northern Cardinal is a mid-sized songbird with a body length of 8.3–9.1 inches (21–23 cm) and a wingspan of 9.8–12.2 inches (25–31 cm). Males are vibrant red with a black face mask that extends to the upper chest, while females are reddish-brown with a grayish-brown mask. Both sexes have a prominent crest on their heads and a strong, cone-shaped beak. Juveniles resemble females but have a brownish coloration that gradually changes to adult plumage by fall.
Distribution and Habitat
The Northern Cardinal is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands. Its range extends from southeastern Canada through the eastern United States, from Maine to Texas, and south into Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. It has also been introduced to Bermuda and Hawaii. The species is highly adaptable and can thrive in suburban and urban environments, often found in parks and residential areas.
Behavior
The Northern Cardinal is primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, and fruits. However, it also consumes insects and small invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season when it feeds its young. Males are highly territorial and use their bright red plumage and loud, clear songs to defend their territory. They often chase off intruders and may even fight their own reflections in mirrors or windows.
During courtship, males feed seeds to females beak-to-beak, a behavior that helps strengthen the pair bond. Both sexes sing clear, whistled songs that are repeated several times before varying. Common phrases include "cheeeer-a-dote, cheeer-a-dote-dote-dote" and "purdy, purdy, purdy...whoit, whoit, whoit, whoit."
Reproduction
Northern Cardinals are monogamous and form strong pair bonds. The female builds the nest, which is a cup-shaped structure made of twigs, grass, and plant fibers, often lined with soft materials. Nests are typically built in dense shrubs or low trees, 1–3 meters (3.3–9.8 feet) off the ground.
The clutch size is usually 3–4 eggs, which are white with a green, blue, or brown tint and marked with lavender, gray, or brown blotches. Incubation lasts about 12–13 days, primarily by the female. The young fledge after 10–11 days and are fed by both parents. Pairs may raise two to four broods per year.
Conservation Status
The Northern Cardinal is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. It is one of the most abundant birds in its range and has even expanded its territory northward in recent decades. The species is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which prohibits the taking, killing, or possession of Northern Cardinals without a permit.
Relationship with Humans
The Northern Cardinal is a popular bird in residential areas and is often attracted to bird feeders, particularly those offering sunflower seeds and safflower seeds. Its bright color and melodious song make it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
In addition to being the state bird of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia, the Northern Cardinal is also the mascot for several sports teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Arizona Cardinals. It has also been featured on numerous stamps and other collectibles.
Subspecies
There are 19 recognized subspecies of the Northern Cardinal, each with slight variations in plumage and range. Some notable subspecies include:
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C. c. cardinalis (Linnaeus, 1758): Found in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.
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C. c. affinis (Nelson, 1899): Found in the southern United States.
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C. c. canicaudus (Chapman, 1891): Found in the southwestern United States.
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C. c. yucatanicus (Ridgway, 1887): Found in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.