Ohio State Bird: The Northern Cardinal

The Ohio state bird is the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), a striking red songbird officially designated as the state's avian symbol in 1933. Known for its bright plumage and clear whistling call, the northern cardinal has become an iconic representation of Ohio’s natural heritage. This choice reflects both the bird’s widespread visibility across the Buckeye State and its cultural resonance with residents who admire its resilience and beauty. As one of the most frequently searched topics related to regional bird symbolism, “what is Ohio state bird” yields a definitive answer: the northern cardinal, a species admired not only for its appearance but also for its adaptability and melodic song.

Historical Background: How the Northern Cardinal Became Ohio's Symbol

The designation of the northern cardinal as Ohio’s official state bird occurred on June 17, 1933, when it was formally adopted by the Ohio General Assembly. At the time, many U.S. states were selecting official symbols to foster regional pride during the Great Depression. Ohio joined this movement by choosing a bird that was both native and beloved by its citizens.

Prior to its official recognition, the cardinal had already gained popularity among Ohioans due to its conspicuous presence in backyards, woodlands, and suburban areas. Unlike migratory birds that disappear seasonally, the northern cardinal resides in Ohio year-round, making it a familiar sight in every season—especially noticeable against winter snow with its vivid red feathers.

The selection process involved input from schoolchildren and civic organizations, reflecting a grassroots effort rather than a top-down decision. In fact, several other birds—including the American goldfinch and the bobwhite quail—were considered, but the cardinal emerged as the favorite due to its distinctive look and pleasant vocalizations.

Why the Northern Cardinal? Cultural and Ecological Significance

Understanding why the northern cardinal was chosen requires looking beyond mere aesthetics. Its symbolism runs deep in Ohio culture and aligns with broader themes of endurance, vitality, and natural beauty.

Year-Round Presence: One key reason for its selection is that cardinals do not migrate. They remain in Ohio throughout all four seasons, offering consistent companionship to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This permanence makes them a powerful emblem of continuity and resilience.

Vibrant Appearance: Male cardinals are unmistakable with their brilliant crimson plumage and prominent crest. Females, though more subdued in color (tan with reddish tinges on wings and tail), share the same elegant shape and expressive calls. Their visual appeal contributes significantly to their status as a cherished backyard visitor.

Cultural Resonance: Beyond biology, the cardinal carries spiritual and emotional meaning for many people. Some interpret sightings as messages from loved ones who have passed, while others see the bird as a sign of hope or renewal. These associations enhance its symbolic value, reinforcing its role as a unifying state icon.

Biological Profile of the Northern Cardinal

To fully appreciate what makes the Ohio state bird so special, it helps to understand its biological traits and behaviors.

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Cardinalis cardinalis
Length	8–9 inches (21–23 cm)
Wingspan	10–12 inches (25–31 cm)
Weight	1.5–1.7 ounces (42–48 g)
Lifespan	3–5 years average; up to 15+ in rare cases
Diet	Seeds, fruits, insects
Habitat	Woodland edges, shrublands, gardens, urban parks
Nesting Season	March to September
Clutch Size	2–5 eggs per brood; 2–3 broods per year

Cardinals are non-migratory passerines belonging to the family Cardinalidae. They are sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females differ in appearance. Males are uniformly red with a black face mask around the bill, while females are pale brown with warm red accents on wings, tail, and crest. Both sexes possess strong conical bills adapted for cracking seeds—a trait that makes them frequent visitors to bird feeders.

They are known for their complex songs, which consist of a series of clear, whistled phrases such as “what-cheer, what-cheer” or “purdy, purdy, purdy.” Interestingly, female cardinals also sing—uncommon among songbirds—and often do so from the nest, possibly to communicate with mates or coordinate feeding duties.

Where to See the Ohio State Bird: Prime Locations for Observing Cardinals

If you're interested in spotting the northern cardinal in its natural habitat, Ohio offers numerous excellent locations. Because cardinals thrive in edge habitats—areas where forests meet open spaces—they can be found in a wide range of environments.

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Offers mixed deciduous forests and riparian zones ideal for cardinals.
• Hocking Hills State Park: With dense woods and abundant underbrush, this region supports healthy populations.
• Urban and Suburban Backyards: Over half of all cardinal sightings occur in residential areas, especially near bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds.
• Metro Parks (e.g., Scioto Audubon Metro Park, Columbus): Designed with native plantings and sheltered thickets, these parks attract cardinals year-round.

For optimal viewing, visit early in the morning or late afternoon when cardinals are most active. Use binoculars and listen for their distinctive calls. Since they tend to stay low in shrubs or mid-level tree branches, scanning at eye level increases your chances of spotting one.

Tips for Attracting Cardinals to Your Yard

Many Ohio residents enjoy hosting cardinals in their yards. Here are practical steps to make your outdoor space more appealing to the state bird:

1. Install Seed Feeders: Use platform or hopper feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, or cracked corn—cardinals’ preferred foods.
2. Provide Cover: Plant dense shrubs like holly, dogwood, or viburnum to offer nesting sites and protection from predators.
3. Add Water Sources: A shallow birdbath or small fountain encourages drinking and bathing, especially in winter if heated.
4. Avoid Pesticides: Chemical treatments reduce insect availability, an important food source during breeding season.
5. Keep Cats Indoors: Domestic cats are a leading cause of bird mortality; keeping them inside protects cardinals and other wildlife.

Common Misconceptions About the Ohio State Bird

Despite its fame, several myths surround the northern cardinal. Clarifying these enhances public understanding:

• Misconception: Cardinals migrate south in winter.
  Reality: Northern cardinals are permanent residents in Ohio and do not migrate.
• Misconception: Only male cardinals sing.
  Reality: Female cardinals sing regularly, particularly during nesting season.
• Misconception: The cardinal was chosen because it appears on sports team logos.
  Reality: The bird predates any sports association; Ohio State University’s mascot came after the bird’s official adoption.
• Misconception: Cardinals are rare or endangered.
  Reality: They are common and stable in population, classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Regional Differences: Is the Cardinal Ohio’s Only Official Bird?

While the northern cardinal is Ohio’s sole official state bird, some states recognize multiple avian symbols (e.g., state bird and state raptor). Ohio does not currently have a secondary bird designation. However, there have been occasional discussions about recognizing the eastern bluebird or barn owl for specific ecological roles, though no legislative action has followed.

It's worth noting that seven other U.S. states—Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio—also claim the northern cardinal as their state bird, making it the most commonly represented state bird in the nation. This shared identity highlights the species’ broad geographic and cultural appeal across the eastern United States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When did Ohio adopt the northern cardinal as its state bird?

Ohio officially adopted the northern cardinal as its state bird on June 17, 1933.

Do female cardinals have red feathers?

Yes, female northern cardinals display reddish tinges on their wings, tail, and crest, though their overall coloring is tan or light brown.

Can you keep a northern cardinal as a pet?

No, it is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to capture, harm, or keep wild cardinals as pets.

What does a cardinal eat?

Cardinals primarily eat seeds, grains, fruits, and insects. Sunflower seeds are a favorite at backyard feeders.

Are cardinals protected in Ohio?

Yes, northern cardinals are protected under federal law via the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits harming or capturing them without a permit.

In conclusion, the northern cardinal stands proudly as the Ohio state bird—not just because of its vivid coloration or melodious song, but because it embodies qualities that resonate deeply with the people of the state. From its historical adoption to its everyday presence in neighborhoods and natural areas, the cardinal continues to inspire admiration and connection to the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply curious about local wildlife, learning about Ohio’s official bird enriches your appreciation of the region’s biodiversity and cultural identity.