Northern Cardinal

Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal, commonly known as the “redbird,” is a mid-sized songbird in the scientific genus Cardinalis. The Northern Cardinal can be found in open woodlands throughout North and South America (cardinals specifically roost in southern Canada, the eastern United States, Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala). Northern Cardinals are hardy, territorial, seed-eating birds with strong beaks, a distinctive red crest, and a dark mask around the facial area.

Numerous institutions have adopted Northern Cardinals as their sports mascots due to the birds’ regal looks and strong character; the Northern Cardinal is the state bird for seven states in the United States of America.