Northern Cardinal

The northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), also known simply as the cardinal, is a mid-sized songbird well-known for its striking appearance and melodic song. Measuring between 21-23 cm (8.3-9.1 inches) in length and weighing around 44.8 grams (1.58 ounces), this bird is a common sight across North America. The male cardinal is renowned for its vibrant crimson red plumage and black facial mask extending to the upper chest. Females, on the other hand, are primarily reddish-olive with a gray mask around the beak. Both sexes have a prominent crest on their heads and a robust, cone-shaped coral-colored beak. Juvenile cardinals resemble the females but lack the distinctive red-orange beak until they reach maturity in the fall.

Taxonomy

The northern cardinal belongs to the genus Cardinalis within the family Cardinalidae. First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, it was initially classified as Loxia cardinalis. Over time, its classification evolved, with significant contributions from various ornithologists. By 1983, it was officially named Cardinalis cardinalis to avoid confusion with other cardinal species. The bird’s name is inspired by the red robes of Roman Catholic cardinals, while “northern” signifies its range, as it is the northernmost species of cardinal.

Subspecies

There are 19 recognized subspecies of the northern cardinal, each varying slightly in size and plumage based on their geographic location.

Distribution, Range, and Population

The northern cardinal is widely distributed across southeastern Canada, the eastern United States, and parts of Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. It has also been introduced to Bermuda and Hawaii. These birds are common in woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands, demonstrating their adaptability to various environments. Their range has expanded due to human activities, particularly the provision of bird feeders, which attract them to residential areas. The global population is estimated to be around 100 million, and it appears to be stable or increasing.

Habitat

Northern cardinals thrive in diverse habitats, including woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands. They are particularly abundant in areas where dense cover is interspersed with open spaces, such as woodland edges, brushy fields, and suburban parks. They tend to avoid extensive, unbroken forests, preferring habitats where they can easily forage and find nesting sites.

Behavior

Cardinals are known for their territorial nature, especially males, who use their loud, clear songs to mark their territory. The male’s song is a series of whistles, with common phrases like “cheer, cheer, cheer” or “purty, purty, purty.” Both sexes sing, although the female’s song is generally quieter. During courtship, the male feeds the female beak-to-beak, a bonding behavior that strengthens their pair bond.

Feeding

The diet of the northern cardinal is primarily granivorous, consisting of weed seeds, grains, and fruits. They are also known to consume insects, such as beetles, cicadas, and grasshoppers, especially during the breeding season when they need to feed their young. Cardinals are ground feeders, often seen hopping along the ground in search of food. They are particularly attracted to sunflower and safflower seeds, making them frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders.

Breeding

Cardinals typically produce two to four clutches per year, each containing three to four eggs. The female constructs the nest, a cup-shaped structure made of twigs, grass, and plant fibers, usually placed in dense shrubs or low trees. Eggs are incubated for 12 to 13 days, primarily by the female, although the male may occasionally take over. After hatching, the chicks fledge about 10 to 11 days later. Males play a crucial role in feeding the young while the female prepares for the next clutch.

Threats

While the northern cardinal population is currently stable, they face threats from habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation. Predators such as hawks, owls, and snakes pose risks to both adults and nestlings. Additionally, northern cardinals are susceptible to brood parasitism by cowbirds, which lay their eggs in cardinal nests. However, their adaptability to human-altered environments and the protection provided by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 have helped mitigate these threats.

Migration

Unlike many songbirds, northern cardinals are largely non-migratory. They remain within their established range year-round, adapting to seasonal changes in food availability. During winter, they fluff up their feathers to retain heat and may shiver to generate warmth. Their ability to survive cold temperatures makes them a familiar sight even in the northern parts of their range during winter.

Conservation

Northern cardinals are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which prohibits their capture, killing, or sale as pets. This legal protection, combined with their adaptability and the increasing popularity of bird feeders, has contributed to their stable population. Conservation efforts focused on preserving natural habitats and mitigating habitat loss are essential to ensure their continued success.

Cultural Significance

The northern cardinal holds a special place in American culture, serving as the state bird of seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. It is also a popular mascot for various sports teams and universities, symbolizing strength and resilience.

Conclusion

The northern cardinal is a beloved and iconic bird, known for its striking appearance and cheerful song. Its adaptability and wide range contribute to its stable population, making it a frequent and welcome visitor to backyards across North America. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a casual observer, the sight of a cardinal is always a delightful experience, offering a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of avian life.