Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Cardinalidae, Genus: Cardinalis, Species: Cardinalis cardinalis
Northern Cardinal
A mid-sized songbird known for its bright red color (males), sharp crest, and clear, whistling song. It is a frequent visitor to backyard feeders and birdbaths.
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Plumage & appearance
Adult males are brilliant crimson red with a prominent crest and a black face mask surrounding a thick, cone-shaped orange-red bill. Females are pale brown/tan with reddish tinges on the wings, tail, and crest.
Ecological significance
Acts as a primary consumer of seeds and fruits, aiding in seed dispersal, and serves as an influential predator of many insect pests during the nesting season.
Conservation status
Least Concern (Population is stable and increasing)
Observation tips
Look for them in brushy areas, wood edges, and garden shrubbery. They are most active near dawn and dusk, and can easily be attracted to feeders using black oil sunflower seeds or safflower seeds.