Northern Cardinal

The northern cardinal (*Cardinalis cardinalis*) is a North American songbird in the family Cardinalidae, known for the male’s bright red plumage and the species’ prominent crest.

The northern cardinal (*Cardinalis cardinalis*) is a North American songbird in the family Cardinalidae, known for the male’s bright red plumage and the species’ prominent crest. It is also called the cardinal rouge in French and is one of the continent’s most familiar backyard birds. The species is widely distributed in eastern and central North America and is classified as a species of least concern.

Identification

The northern cardinal is a medium-sized songbird with a long tail, a prominent crest, and a thick bill. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males are vivid red with a black face mask, while females are browner with red on the wings, tail, and crest.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs across eastern and central North America and south into Mexico and parts of Central America. It uses woodlands, shrublands, forest edges, gardens, and suburban areas, and is often seen year-round rather than only during breeding season.

Behaviour and diet

Northern cardinals are territorial songbirds and both sexes sing. They feed mainly on seeds and fruit, but also take insects, especially during the breeding season.

Conservation and status

The northern cardinal is considered common and widespread, with a conservation status of least concern. Its success in suburban and edge habitats has helped maintain stable populations across much of its range.