Northern Cardinal
NameNorthern Cardinal
Common NameNorthern Cardinal
Scientific NameCardinalis cardinalis
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)44
Plumage DetailsAdult males typically display brilliant, vibrant red plumage over their entire body, with a distinctive black mask around their reddish-orange bill. Females are duller, with reddish-brown plumage, red accents on the wings, tail, and crest, and a less prominent black mask. Both sexes possess a prominent crest. The individual in the image is a rare xanthochroic (yellow) morph, lacking red pigment, resulting in yellow plumage with a reddish-orange bill and a black mask.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of clear, whistled songs, often described as 'cheer-cheer-cheer,' 'birdie-birdie-birdie,' or 'what-cheer, what-cheer.' Both sexes sing. They also emit a sharp 'chip' call as an alarm or contact note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban gardens, parks, shrubland, wetland edges
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across eastern and central North America, ranging from southeastern Canada through the eastern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America.
Identifying FeaturesProminent crest, Thick, conical, reddish-orange bill, Black mask around the bill (even in yellow morphs), Sexual dimorphism (though less pronounced in yellow morphs), Distinctive whistled song
Description
The Northern Cardinal is a medium-sized songbird known for its prominent crest and thick, conical bill. Males are typically brilliant red, while females are reddish-brown, though rare yellow morphs like the one pictured can occur. They are common visitors to bird feeders and are known for their cheerful songs.
