8 Facts About The Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinals are among the most recognizable and beloved birds in North America. Their bright red feathers and cheerful songs make them a welcome sight in backyards and forests alike. And these birds aren't just beautiful to look at either, they have fascinating behaviors and unique traits that help them thrive in various environments. Here are just a few of their fascinating traits.
A Name Rooted in History
The Northern Cardinal gets its name from the vibrant red robes and caps worn by Catholic cardinals. When European settlers first arrived in North America, the bird's striking feathers reminded them, both color-wise and shape-wise, of the high-ranking church officials. Even its scientific name, Cardinalis cardinalis, reflects this history. These birds were so popular for their color and song that people used to keep them as pets in cages during the 1800s until laws protected them.
Brilliant Red is Earned
A male cardinal's bright red color isn't something he’s born with, he has to eat his way to it! Cardinals consume berries and fruits that contain pigments called carotenoids. As they digest these foods, the pigments travel through the bloodstream and into the feathers. If a cardinal can’t find enough of these specific fruits, his reds may start to fade into a duller brownish color over time.
Bald Cardinals
You might occasionally see a cardinal that looks completely bald with dark skin on its head. Don't worry, the bird usually isn't sick. This happens during their molting season in late summer. While most birds replace a few feathers at a time, some cardinals lose all their head feathers at once. It's a natural process to get rid of old, damaged feathers and grow a fresh, strong set for the coming winter, but it definitely looks a little strange for a while.
Both Partners are Singers
In many songbird species, only the male sings to defend territory or find a mate, but Northern Cardinals are different because the females sing too. A female often sings from the nest to communicate with her mate. This helps him know when to bring food or when to stay away so he doesn't lead predators to their home. Their songs are complex, and a single bird can have over two dozen different tunes in their catalogue.
Fierce Protectors of Their Turf
During the breeding season, cardinals become very territorial. They'll aggressively chase away any other cardinals that try to move into their space. This instinct is so strong that they often mistake their own reflection in a window or car mirror for a rival. You might see one peck at a window for hours trying to drive the "intruder" away.
A Sweet Courtship Ritual
When cardinals are courting, the male shows he's a good provider by feeding the female. He’ll find a seed, hop over to her, and tilt his head to place the food directly into her beak. This behavior looks very much like the birds are kissing. It’s a way for both the pair to bond and for the female to save energy while she prepares to lay her eggs and start a new family.
They Don't Use Birdhouses
If you want to help cardinals nest in your yard, don't buy a birdhouse. Cardinals are open-cup nesters and won't fly into an enclosed box. Instead, the female builds a sturdy cup-shaped nest out of twigs, bark, and grasses tucked away in dense shrubs or thickets. They prefer locations that are well-hidden and usually only a few feet off the ground. Planting thick bushes like dogwood or viburnum is the best way to invite them.
Homebodies Through the Winter
Unlike many other birds that fly south when it gets cold, Northern Cardinals stay put all year. They don't migrate, so the same birds you see in the summer are likely the ones you see in the winter. Because they stay in cold climates, they rely heavily on backyard bird feeders during snowy months. Their bright red feathers create a stunning contrast against the white snow, making them very easy to spot.
Hopefully these facts help you see these common backyard birds in a whole new light. Cardinals are resilient, loyal, and full of personality. By providing them with the right seeds and dense bushes, you can ensure they stay a part of your local environment for years to come. They truly are a gift to anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature right outside their window.