Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
Adult Northern Cardinals live in woodland edges, thickets, gardens, parks, and backyards across much of eastern and central North America. They eat seeds, fruits, and insects, cracking food with a strong conical bill. Adults are territorial, using song, displays, pecks, and short aerial chases to defend feeding and nesting areas. The bright red color of males comes from carotenoid pigments in their diet, while females are warm brown with reddish highlights.
- Type
- Wing
- Conservation status
- LC