Bird of the Month: The Northern Cardinal – North Carolina’s State Bird
Bird of the Month: The Northern Cardinal – North Carolina’s State Bird
The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most recognizable and beloved birds in North Carolina. With its brilliant red plumage, melodic songs, and year-round presence, it’s no wonder this striking bird was designated the official state bird in 1943.
How to Identify a Northern Cardinal
Male Northern Cardinals are a vivid, unmistakable red with a black mask around their face and an elegant crest atop their head. Their bright coloration makes them stand out against the green foliage in summer and even more so against snowy landscapes in winter.
Females, while not as bold in color, are equally beautiful with warm, brownish tones accented by reddish hues on their wings, crest, and tail. Both sexes have a distinctive orange-red beak, perfect for cracking open seeds.
In addition to their striking appearance, Northern Cardinals are known for their cheerful and varied songs. Males sing to mark territory, and both males and females communicate through a variety of whistles and chirps. Their calls are often described as a clear “cheer-cheer-cheer” or a melodic “whit-chew whit-chew.”
Where to Spot a Northern Cardinal in North Carolina
Northern Cardinals are non-migratory birds, meaning they can be seen in North Carolina throughout the year. They thrive in a variety of habitats, from suburban gardens to dense forests, making them one of the easiest birds to observe. Here are some prime locations to find them:
Backyard Feeders – One of the best places to spot a Northern Cardinal is right in your own backyard. They are frequent visitors to bird feeders, especially those stocked with sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and peanuts.
Carolina Beach State Park – This park offers diverse habitats, including maritime forests and open areas, providing excellent opportunities to observe Northern Cardinals.
Wooded Areas and Brushy Fields – Look for them in forests, thickets, and shrubby areas, where they often perch low to the ground while foraging for food.
Urban and Suburban Parks – Even in city parks and landscaped areas, cardinals make their presence known, adding a flash of color and song to the scenery.
How to Attract Northern Cardinals to Your Yard
If you want to enjoy the sight and sound of Northern Cardinals up close, here are some tips to encourage them to visit your yard:
Provide the Right Food – Cardinals prefer black-oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. Use platform feeders or hopper feeders with sturdy perches, as cardinals are larger than many backyard birds.
Offer Fresh Water – A birdbath or shallow water source will attract cardinals, especially during hot summer months.
Plant Native Shrubs and Trees – Cardinals appreciate dense vegetation for nesting and shelter. Consider planting dogwoods, holly, or sumac to create a cardinal-friendly environment.
Limit Predator Threats – Keep feeders away from areas where cats or other predators might hide. Providing cover, such as evergreen shrubs, can offer protection.
Fun Facts About Northern Cardinals
Unlike many songbirds, both male and female cardinals sing.
Cardinals do not migrate, making them one of the few bright red birds you’ll see even in winter.
They are highly territorial, and males have been known to attack their own reflection in windows or mirrors.
A group of cardinals is called a “college,” “conclave,” or “Vatican.”
The Northern Cardinal is more than just North Carolina’s state bird—it’s a year-round resident that brings color and music to landscapes across the state. Whether you spot one at a park, in a forest, or right outside your window, take a moment to appreciate this vibrant feathered friend!