Northern Cardinal

Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis

Classification: Order: Passeriformes; Family: Cardinalidae

Identified from audio

A medium-sized songbird with a prominent crest and a stout, cone-shaped bill. Known for its territorial behavior and frequent singing by both sexes.

Region of Origin: North America
Typical Sighting Period: Year-round
Plumage Details: Males are brilliant red with a black mask and coral-colored beak. Females are pale brown/olive with reddish tinges in the wings and tail, and a similar black mask and crest.
Ecological Significance: Acts as a predator for several agricultural pests and serves as a significant seed disperser for various native plant species.
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)
Observation Tips: Look for them in thickets, backyard feeders, or overgrown fields. They are often the first birds to visit feeders in the morning and the last at night.

Length: 8.3-9.1 in; Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 in; Weight: 1.2-1.7 oz

Mainly seeds, grains, and fruits; also consumes insects during the breeding season.

Woodland edges, shrubby areas, suburban gardens, and parks.

Non-migratory resident

The recording features a series of loud, clear, whistled phrases 'cheer-cheer-cheer' or 'birdie-birdie-birdie', ending in a rapid trill.

Open cup nests built by the female in dense shrubs or trees; usually produces 2-4 broods per year.

Prominent crest, black face mask, heavy conical orange-red bill, and vibrant red (male) or tan/red (female) coloration.

Pyrrhuloxia (found in Southwest US; greyer with a yellow curved beak and red accents).

Unlike many songbirds, both the male and female Northern Cardinal sing, often during pair bonding or territory defense.