With few exceptions, you will have a hard time finding a birdwatcher who doesn’t count the Northern Cardinal among their favorite birds. In this article, we’ll explore fun facts about Northern Cardinals—from their bright red bodies and sharp crests to their melodic songs that captivate bird lovers everywhere.
Indeed, they are one of the most well-known species in North America and can generally be found in the city’s backyards, woods, and parks. A cardinal isn’t a migratory bird, thus, they are not running away from their habitats even in harsh winters. The food source provided by humans in feeders and heated birdbaths helps the birds not only survive but thrive.
“One way to see the beauty and magnificence of life is to come across cardinal birds.” – David Scott of BirdLife.
Lets discover 10 fascinating fun facts about Northern Cardinals! Learn about their habitats, songs, and unique behaviors in this detailed birdwatching guide.
1. Males Are Not the Only Ones That Sing:
In the bird world, it is often the males who take up the role of singing to attract mates and protect their territories. However, Northern Cardinals are one of the rare exceptions where females also sing. Their songs are often more intricate than the males’ and are usually used to communicate with their mates.
At the time of nesting, a female cardinal can be singing while sitting on her eggs. It is believed by scientists that this is her method of conveying to her partner when he should bring food. The song can vary from one region to another, but the most usual melody goes like “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie.”
2. Did You Know They Stay in One Place Year-Round?
Northern Cardinals behave differently from most migratory songbirds, as they remain in the same areas year-round. Because of this, bird watchers and nature enthusiasts can easily spot them in any season.
In winter, their bright red plumage stands out against the snow, making them a top choice for bird photographers. They stay within their territories during the colder months, strengthening their bonds and fiercely defending their spaces from other birds.
3. Amazing Fun Facts About Northern Cardinals – Their Bright Feathers Stay Year-Round:
Though birds such as goldfinches alter the color of their new plumage seasonally, Northern Cardinals keep their beautiful colors throughout the year. Male cardinals, especially, appear resplendent with their radiant red feathers. They sing and hop happily through the trees, while the bigger brown females, with hints of red on wings and tails, move in silence behind them.
A cardinal’s plumage color also has a strong correlation with its diet. Carotenoids, which are present in berries and seeds, increase the reddish tint of the bird and can even make it feel happier. If the male cardinal looks pale or patchy, it may be due to molting or a nutrition-poor diet.
Moreover, a few male cardinals become bald when they lose all the feathers on their head simultaneously. Although their naked dark skin appears to be distressing, it’s not a problem. The new feathers should usually regrow in a few weeks.
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4. They Have a Rare Copulation Display:
Are you afraid of not being able to stop them in time? Then another thing that is really very interesting and also feeds the bear and lion in human nature is that the cardinal sees itself in the window, car mirror, or mirrored surface and mistakes the reflection for another bird.
Thus, attacking the surface repeatedly, thinking it to be the outdoor intruder. If this habit becomes more frequent and intense, it might be better to stick some film or curtain on the window replacing the large reflection with some small one or numerous smaller ones or losing at least the crystal-clearness of the mirror if the birds get too involved with the mirrored image.
These Cardinals are famous for their lifelong harmony and can be found in pairs throughout the years.
5. They Are High-Spirited and Belligerent Birds:
A male bird will sing loudly all the time and patrol the ground to have other birds identify and honor the boundaries of its property.
When a female bird—particularly one that looks like the male’s own pale reflection—meets the male within its territory, the male will immediately drive her away. Northern Cardinals, with their bright exuberance, are incredibly aggressive in defending their home.
In breeding season, males are particularly territorial. They defend their home base vigorously and will not think twice before challenging any intruder who ventures into their space.
6. Their Beaks Are Perfect for Cracking Seeds:
The beaks of Northern Cardinals are short and cone-shaped, which are perfect for crushing tough seeds. Their main food is sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, berries, and insects. Their firm beaks enable them to effortlessly open shells and thus are very suitable for use with feeders in the backyards.
In the warmer part of the year, they also get a small number of insects in their diet that give them the additional protein needed for breeding.
Diet and Feeding Habits:
The cardinals’ diet is quite diversified and varies with the change of seasons. During the summer, they have a diet that consists of:
- Seeds – Sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn are some of the seeds they eat.
- Fruits and Berries – They like to eat dogwood berries, wild grapes, elderberries, and mulberries.
- Insects and Spiders – Protein-containing food, such as beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers.
Backyard Feeding:
To allure Northern Cardinals, you must ensure your garden provides the right type of food. Below are some of the best foods that you can offer:
- Black-oil sunflower seeds – They are easy to crack open and are very rich in nutrients.
- Safflower seeds – These seeds are the least favorite of squirrels, which makes them the best choice for bird feeders.
- Peanuts (unsalted and shelled) – A great source of protein and healthy fats.
- Fruit pieces – Chopped apples, berries, and grapes can serve as an additional treat to the ones given already.
7. They Were Named After Catholic Cardinals:
Early settlers of North America were the first to notice that the blood-red color of the male cardinal was the same as the red robes that the Catholic cardinals. The male Northern Cardinal’s name has its origin, strangely enough, deriving from the Roman Catholic Church. As a result of the visual resemblance, they gave the bird the name “Cardinal”.
Folklore and Symbolism of Cardinals:
Aside from their connection to the church, Northern Cardinals have profound symbolic significance in different cultures. Most individuals think that seeing a cardinal is good luck or an indication of a spiritual connection with a deceased loved one.
A common saying reflects this: “When a cardinal appears, a loved one is near.” This common belief has turned the cardinal into a strong symbol of hope, guidance, and remembrance.
To others who are grieving the death of a family or close friend, seeing a cardinal can be solacing. They interpret it as a reassuring sight or message from the otherworld, assuring them that they are not on their own.
Cardinals in Popular Culture:
The Northern Cardinal’s outstanding cultural importance has gained it a wide variety of uses in the media and branding. The St.Louis Cardinals (MLB) and the Arizona Cardinals (NFL) are two American sports teams that derive their name from the bird. That’s not all. Cardinals are the state birds of seven U.S. states. One of the most frequent uses of cardinals is in Christmas ornaments, covers, and winter-themed artworks.
8. They Adapt Well to Urban and Rural Areas:
Contrary to the situation with many types of birds, which need to have wide forests or secluded areas to exist, Cardinals can thrive in numerous types of habitats which can range from thick woods to the gardens of a residential area, and even bustling city parks. The Northern Cardinal is considered one of the most adaptable bird species on the North American continent.
Their productive existence in different places and their inclination to self-organize with each other are the most potent reasons for their frequent and numerous appearances among the American avifauna. The most remarkable characteristic that enables them to be so versatile is their unique way of looking for food as well as building nests. The type of plants and the availability of food in their habitats are the only two things that can put the brake on their expansion.
For the majority of cases, Cardinals choose nest-sites that are easily accessible and that are surrounded by a lot of plant cover. No wonder these birds are regularly visited by cardinals, comprising the members of the dogwood, elderberry, hawthorn, and wild grapevine families. The four mentioned kinds are of extreme importance since they also serve as good hiding places, and they provide their fruit.
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9. They Use Their Crest to Express Emotion:
The Northern Cardinal’s crest—a refined, upright cluster of feathers on its head—is not just for show but serves as a vital tool of bird communication. This striking feature is an emotional barometer, providing instantaneous feedback about the bird’s mood and awareness of the situation. Raised crests usually indicate increased vigilance or restlessness, frequently in reaction to immediate threats such as predators (e.g., hawks or household cats) or advancing rival birds.
This crest display behavior is most crucial in cases of territorial competition. Defensive posture male cardinals raise their crests and puffed-out feathers to appear larger and to frighten off potential intruders. This behavior is an innate display behavior of biological origin, used to exercise dominance and acquire control of highly valued resources like food and nesting sites.
Interestingly, cardinals will sometimes mistake their reflection in windows or automobile mirrors for intruding males. This condition, based on their territoriality, elicits aggressive reactions whereby the bird can attack its own image, taking it to be an intruder. This shows the species’ strong territoriality and the role of the crest in spatial defense and social signaling.
Close observation of crest movements provides interesting insights into the behavioral ecology of the cardinal. It presents a non-verbal account of its interactions with the environment and thus is an important subject of study for ornithologists and bird watchers alike.
10. The Northern Cardinal is the State Bird of Seven U.S. States:
The Northern Cardinal has an exceptional position in the culture of the United States. It is the official bird of seven American states, which makes it the most popular state bird in the country. The states that have chosen the Northern Cardinal as their state bird are as follows:
- Illinois – Adopted in 1929, the cardinal was chosen for its bright red color and cheerful song, which are familiar sights and sounds across the state.
- Indiana – Selected in 1933, the cardinal’s year-round presence in Indiana made it a favorite among residents.
- Kentucky – Cardinals are commonly found throughout the state, making them a natural choice for Kentucky’s state bird, designated in 1926.
- North Carolina – Officially named the state bird in 1943, the Northern Cardinal’s beauty and distinctive song make it a beloved symbol of North Carolina’s wildlife.
- Ohio – In 1933, the Ohio General Assembly designated the cardinal as the state bird due to its abundance and striking red color.
- Virginia – Known for their presence in forests and suburban areas, cardinals have been Virginia’s state bird since 1950.
- West Virginia – Recognized in 1949, the cardinal is admired for its vibrant red plumage and sweet melody, both of which brighten the landscape year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions – Fun Facts About Northern Cardinals:
How rare are northern cardinals?
Northern cardinals are not considered rare. They are common throughout North and Central America, particularly in forests, gardens, and suburban areas. Their range extends from Canada to northern Argentina, and they are particularly abundant in the eastern and central United States.
What does the Northern Cardinal symbolize?
The northern cardinal is often seen as a symbol of love, vitality, and passion due to its bright red color. In many cultures, cardinals are believed to represent the presence of a lost loved one, serving as a spiritual messenger. They are also linked to hope, renewal, and the belief that our loved ones live on after death.
Why are cardinals so special?
Cardinals are special because of their striking appearance, especially the males’ vibrant red feathers. Their melodic song is another characteristic that makes them stand out. Additionally, in various cultures, cardinals hold symbolic meanings related to spiritual messages, making them not just beautiful but also culturally significant.
How long do northern cardinals live?
The average lifespan of a northern cardinal is around 3 years, but many do not survive their first year due to predation and environmental factors. In the wild, cardinals can live up to 15 years, though the oldest recorded cardinal lived to be 16 years old. Their lifespan can vary depending on factors like habitat and food availability.
Conclusion:
From its striking beak to its deeply rooted spiritual symbolism, the Northern Cardinal has a very special position in the hearts of many. These stunning red birds are not merely lovely—they are imbued with layers of symbolism through their behavior, habitat choice, and cultural significance, making them one of North America’s most fascinating bird species.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or someone who simply enjoys the flash of red in your yard, learning some fun facts about Northern Cardinals can deepen your appreciation for these beautiful birds. They’re not just adding color to the landscape—they might be delivering messages of hope, memory, or personal meaning.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or someone who simply enjoys the flash of red in your yard, learning some fun facts about Northern Cardinals can deepen your appreciation for these beautiful birds. They’re not just adding color to the landscape—they might be delivering messages of hope, memory, or personal meaning.
The next time a cardinal catches your eye, pause. It could be more than a bird—it could be a sign.
Did you have an exciting encounter with a Northern Cardinal? Tell us in the comments below—your encounter could motivate another person to look!
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