CARDINAL
DESCRIPTION
Cardinals are medium-sized songbirds known for their vibrant red plumage, particularly in males, which makes them easily recognizable. They have a distinctive crest on their heads and a stout, orange-red bill that is well adapted for cracking seeds. Cardinals are often found in pairs or small groups and are known for their melodious songs, which they use to communicate with each other and establish territory.
FUN FACTS
- Cardinals are named after the red robes worn by Catholic cardinals, which is reflected in the male's bright red plumage
- They are also known for their unique songs, which can vary significantly between individuals, making them a favorite among birdwatchers and enthusiasts
QUICK INFO
Lifespan3-5 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivity
Average Weight75-100 g
Average Length21-23 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structurepair, often seen in mated pairs during breeding season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-June)
- Habitat
- Cardinals thrive in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and shrubby areas. They prefer areas with dense vegetation for nesting and foraging.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Urban
- Native Range
- Cardinals are native to North and Central America, with a range extending from southern Canada to northern Argentina.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- United States, Canada, Mexico, Argentina
- Diet
- Cardinals primarily feed on seeds, fruits, and insects. They are known to forage on the ground and in shrubs, often visiting bird feeders for sunflower seeds.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- sunflower seeds, berries
- Social Structure
- pair, often seen in mated pairs during breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-6
- Territorial
- 1
CR
LC
LC
75-100 g
Weight
21-23 cm
Length
- Coloration
- males are bright red, females are brownish with red accents
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are more brightly colored than females
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Cardinals are common and widespread, with stable populations in many areas.
- Wild Population Estimate
- up to 100 million
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural expansion. However, they adapt well to human-altered environments.
- Predators
- hawks, cats, snakes, raccoons
- Defense Mechanisms
- Cardinals use their bright coloration to startle predators and often take flight to escape danger.
- Compatible Animals
- finches, sparrows, doves
- Found in Zoos
- Common