Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

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Overview

The northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most recognisable songbirds in North America. The male is a brilliant red with a black face mask and a pointed crest, while the female is a warm brown with red highlights. Both sexes have a stout, cone-shaped bill suited to cracking seeds.

A common bird of gardens, woodland edges, and shrubland, the cardinal is a year-round resident across much of the eastern and central United States and beyond, and a frequent visitor to bird feeders.

Conservation note: the northern cardinal is widespread, common, and even expanding in parts of its range; it is not of conservation concern. For current details, consult authoritative sources.

Habitat & Range

Northern cardinals favour woodland edges, thickets, shrubland, gardens, and parks across the eastern and central United States, parts of the southwest, Mexico, and Central America. They thrive in dense low cover and have adapted well to suburban landscapes.

Diet

Cardinals feed mainly on seeds and grains, using their strong conical bill to crack them, along with fruit and insects — the latter especially important for feeding nestlings. They readily visit feeders stocked with seeds such as sunflower.

Behavior

Cardinals are known for their clear, whistled songs, and unusually among North American songbirds, both males and females sing. They are generally seen in pairs during the breeding season and may form looser groups in winter. Males can be strongly territorial, sometimes even challenging their own reflection in windows.

Human Interaction & Conservation

The northern cardinal is a much-loved backyard bird, a popular feeder visitor, and an emblem adopted by several US states and sports teams. It coexists well with people and is widespread and secure. For current status, consult authoritative bird references.

More photos of the northern cardinal