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The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most recognizable and familiar songbirds in North America, known for its striking appearance, and distinctive call (chip) and songs (cheer-cheer, and birdie-birdie).
This medium-sized bird is a member of the cardinal family (Cardinalidae) and its Carver County cousins include rose-breasted grosbeaks, dickcissels, indigo buntings and scarlet tanagers. Generally, they are almost 9” long with a 12” wingspan.
The cardinals are sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females have distinctly different appearances. Male cardinals have brilliant red feathers and a black mask. Their red color is a result of pigments found in their diet.
Female cardinals have a warm brown plumage with tinges of red on their crest, wings, and tail. They become colorful blurs when bathing in puddles or water features in yards. In winter they are bright spots of color and made for photography when perched on snow covered boughs or bushes.
Both sexes have a distinctive crest atop their heads and a stout, conical beak that is orange-red in adults, brown in juveniles and heavy-duty for cracking seeds.
Cardinals are non-migratory birds found across a wide range of habitats across Minnesota and Carver County.
They are territorial, particularly during the breeding season when males defend their areas through song and displays. Males are relentless and will continue to chase away other males until they are clear of its territory. Their whistles can be heard before dawn and after sunset. Both males and females sing, which is unusual among songbirds.
Female cardinals may use their song to tell the male when to bring food during nesting.
Cardinals are monogamous and form bonds that can last for several years. Mated pairs often engage in courtship feeding, where the male offers seeds to the female. Both parents share responsibilities for feeding and protecting their young.
Their diet includes seeds, fruits, and insects. Sunflower seeds are a particular favorite, making them regular visitors to feeders. During the breeding season, insects provide protein for growing chicks. Cardinals are ground foragers, often seen hopping along the ground in search of food.
The Northern Cardinal has a prominent place in American culture and is the state bird of seven states, the mascot for baseball and football teams and often used in illustrations and sculptures.
For more information:
“Birds of the World” Cornell Lab of Ornithology Link
“Field Guide to the Birds of North America” National Geographic
“Stokes Field Guide to Birds” Donald and Lillian Stokes
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Link
