Northern Cardinal
NameNorthern Cardinal
Common NameNorthern Cardinal
Scientific NameCardinalis cardinalis
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)44
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely brilliant red with a prominent crest and a black mask around a cone-shaped, reddish-orange bill. Females are duller reddish-brown with red accents on the wings, tail, and crest, also featuring a black mask and a reddish-orange bill.
Vocalization / CallA variety of clear, whistled songs, often described as 'cheer-cheer-cheer' or 'birdie-birdie-birdie'. They also emit a sharp 'chip' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest edges, gardens, shrublands, parks, suburban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across eastern and central North America, extending into parts of the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Identifying Featuresbright red plumage (male), prominent crest, black mask around bill, cone-shaped reddish-orange bill, whistled song
Description
The Northern Cardinal is a medium-sized songbird renowned for the brilliant red plumage of the male and its distinctive crest. They are often found in suburban gardens and woodlands, known for their melodious songs and sometimes aggressive territorial behavior, as seen in the image where a male is confronting its reflection.
