7 States Have the Cardinal as Their State Bird

The northern cardinal is the official state bird of seven U.S. states, making it the most widely adopted state bird in the nation. If you've ever wondered how many states have cardinal as their state bird, the answer is clear: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia all proudly recognize the vibrant red songbird as a symbol of regional pride and natural heritage. This widespread selection underscores the cardinal's cultural significance and year-round visibility across eastern and central America, especially during winter when its bright plumage stands out against snowy landscapes.

Why the Northern Cardinal Is So Popular Among U.S. States

The northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) has become an emblematic species in American culture, not only for its striking appearance but also for its melodic song and adaptability to human environments. Its brilliant crimson feathers in males (while females display warm tan tones with reddish highlights) make it one of the most easily identifiable birds in backyard settings. Unlike many migratory species, cardinals are non-migratory and remain in their territories throughout the year, increasing public familiarity and affection.

This consistent presence likely contributed to its appeal when states were selecting official avian symbols during the early to mid-20th century. The trend began with Indiana, which was the first to adopt the cardinal in 1933, followed closely by Illinois in 1929 (though officially designated later). These decisions often emerged from schoolchildren’s campaigns or ornithological society recommendations, reflecting grassroots enthusiasm rather than top-down mandates.

A Historical Timeline: When Each State Adopted the Cardinal

Understanding how many states have cardinal as their state bird also involves exploring the historical context behind each adoption. Below is a chronological list showing when each state formally recognized the northern cardinal:

State	Year Adopted	Legislative Body/Process
Illinois	1929	General Assembly; chosen over the meadowlark after public input
Indiana	1933	State legislature; selected following a vote by schoolchildren
Kentucky	1926	General Assembly; replaced the mockingbird due to lobbying efforts
Ohio	1933	State legislature; chosen for its beauty and resilience
Virginia	1950	General Assembly; selected after debate over other native species
West Virginia	1949	State legislature; replaced the redbird (an older name for cardinal)
North Carolina	1943	General Assembly; picked over the mockingbird through legislative action

Note that while Kentucky adopted the cardinal earliest (1926), Illinois claims official designation in 1929 despite earlier informal recognition. These dates reflect broader trends in state symbolism during the early 20th century, where natural icons were increasingly used to foster civic identity.

Biological Traits That Make the Cardinal Stand Out

Beyond symbolism, the cardinal’s biology contributes to its popularity. As a member of the family Cardinalidae, this medium-sized songbird exhibits several distinctive traits:

• Sexual dimorphism: Males are vivid red; females are more subdued with gray-brown bodies and red accents on wings, tail, and crest.
• Vocal ability: Both males and females sing complex songs, which is rare among North American birds. Their calls include whistles, trills, and alarm notes.
• Diet: Primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, and fruits. They readily visit bird feeders, especially those offering sunflower seeds.
• Habitat: Found in woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and urban areas across the eastern and central United States, extending into parts of Mexico and Arizona.
• Lifespan: Typically 3–5 years in the wild, though some individuals live over 15 years under ideal conditions.

These characteristics enhance their visibility and likability, reinforcing why so many states chose them as representatives of local wildlife.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance of the Cardinal

The cardinal carries deep symbolic meaning in various cultures, particularly within American folklore. Many believe seeing a cardinal brings good luck, spiritual messages, or signs from departed loved ones. This belief stems from indigenous traditions and Christian symbolism, where the red plumage is associated with vitality, passion, and divine presence.

In sports, the cardinal represents professional and collegiate teams, such as the St. Louis Cardinals (MLB) and the Arizona Cardinals (NFL). These associations further embed the bird in regional identities, especially in states where it is already the official bird.

Additionally, the cardinal appears frequently in holiday imagery—its red color aligns well with Christmas themes, and its winter activity makes it a familiar sight during festive seasons. This seasonal relevance may have subtly influenced its selection as a state symbol in regions with strong winter traditions.

How to Observe Cardinals: Tips for Birdwatchers

For those interested in spotting cardinals in the wild or attracting them to their yards, here are practical tips based on ecological behavior and habitat preferences:

1. Provide food sources: Use platform or hopper feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, or cracked corn. Cardinals prefer ground-level or low-platform feeders.
2. Create shelter: Plant dense shrubs like holly, dogwood, or viburnum. These provide nesting sites and protection from predators.
3. Offer water: A shallow birdbath with fresh water attracts cardinals for drinking and bathing, especially in dry or cold months.
4. Avoid pesticides: Chemical treatments reduce insect populations, which are important for feeding young cardinals during breeding season.
5. Listen for calls: Learn to identify cardinal songs—clear, whistled phrases like “what-cheer, what-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie.” Females often call from nests, giving observers clues to location.

Cardinals are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your observation times accordingly. Because they are non-migratory, consistent monitoring throughout the year can yield rewarding sightings.

Common Misconceptions About State Birds and the Cardinal

Despite its popularity, several misconceptions persist about the cardinal’s status and role as a state symbol:

• Misconception 1: “All southern states have the cardinal as their bird.” False. While several southeastern states do, others like Tennessee (mockingbird), Georgia (brown thrasher), and Florida (mockingbird) have different choices.
• Misconception 2: “The cardinal is only found in the U.S.” False. Its range extends into Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala, and it has been introduced to places like Bermuda and Hawaii.
• Misconception 3: “Female cardinals don’t sing.” False. Female cardinals sing regularly, particularly during nest-building and incubation, often communicating with mates.
• Misconception 4: “Having the same bird means states lack uniqueness.” False. Shared symbols can reflect biogeographical realities—many of these states lie within the cardinal’s core range.

Clarifying these points helps deepen understanding of both ornithology and cultural decision-making behind state symbols.

Regional Differences in Cardinal Populations and Recognition

While seven states officially recognize the cardinal, its abundance varies across regions. In the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, cardinals are common residents in suburban and rural areas. However, in northern climates like southern Ontario or higher elevations, harsh winters can limit population density.

Urbanization has generally benefited cardinals, as they thrive in fragmented forests and landscaped yards. Still, local threats such as window collisions, cat predation, and habitat loss require attention. Some states conduct annual bird counts (e.g., Christmas Bird Count) to monitor cardinal numbers and distribution trends.

Interestingly, although neighboring states like Tennessee and Maryland did not choose the cardinal, they still host healthy populations. This highlights that official designation doesn't always correlate with presence—it reflects historical choice and advocacy more than biological exclusivity.

Verifying State Bird Information: How to Stay Updated

If you're researching state symbols for educational, conservation, or personal interest purposes, rely on authoritative sources:

• Official state government websites (.gov domains)
• National Audubon Society and Cornell Lab of Ornithology
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service publications
• State natural resource agencies and wildlife commissions

Laws can change, though redesignating a state bird is rare. Always check recent legislative updates if using this information for formal reports or policy work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which was the first state to adopt the cardinal as its state bird?

Kentucky was the first, adopting the northern cardinal in 1926, followed by Illinois in 1929 and Indiana in 1933.

Do any states have multiple official state birds?

No U.S. state currently has more than one official state bird. All seven states with the cardinal designate it as their sole avian emblem.

Can you find cardinals in all 50 states?

No, cardinals are primarily found in the eastern and central U.S., parts of the Southwest, and Mexico. They are absent or rare in much of the Pacific Northwest and northern New England.

Why do so many states choose the cardinal over other colorful birds?

Its year-round residency, bold coloration, pleasant song, and comfort around humans make it highly visible and beloved. These factors combined led multiple states to independently select it.

Is the cardinal protected as a state bird?

Being a state bird does not grant special legal protection beyond standard federal laws like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which already protects cardinals from hunting and capture.