Northern Cardinal perched

Northern Cardinal

Cardinalis cardinalis

A popular and easily recognized songbird.

Size

21-23 cm

Wingspan

25-31 cm

Weight

33-65 g

Lifespan

13-15 years in the wild

Conservation

Least Concern

Identification

Males are brilliant red with a black mask around the beak. Females are pale brown with red tinges.

Habitat

Backyards, parks, woodlands, and shrublands.

Diet

Seeds, fruits, and insects.

Behavior

Frequently visits bird feeders. Known for its clear, whistling song.

Distribution

Eastern North America.

Description

The Northern Cardinal is a bird in the genus Cardinalis; it is also known colloquially as the redbird, common cardinal or just cardinal. It can be found in southeastern Canada, through the eastern United States from Maine to Texas and south through Mexico.