Virginia's State Bird is the Northern Cardinal

The state bird for Virginia is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). This iconic songbird, known for its brilliant red feathers and distinctive crest, was officially adopted as Virginia’s state bird in 1950. As one of the most widely recognized birds in North America, the Northern Cardinal stands out not only for its striking appearance but also for its cultural significance and consistent presence in suburban and rural landscapes throughout the Commonwealth. A natural long-tail keyword variation such as 'what is the official state bird of Virginia' leads directly to this answer: it is the Northern Cardinal, a species celebrated for both its beauty and resilience.

Historical Background: How the Northern Cardinal Became Virginia’s State Bird

The designation of the Northern Cardinal as Virginia’s state bird was the result of a broader mid-20th-century movement across U.S. states to adopt official symbols that reflected regional identity. In 1946, the Virginia General Assembly considered several native bird species, including the Eastern Bluebird and the American Robin, before ultimately deferring to public sentiment and widespread popularity. The Northern Cardinal received overwhelming support from schoolchildren, birdwatching clubs, and conservation organizations.

On January 23, 1950, Governor John S. Battle signed Senate Joint Resolution No. 8, formally declaring the Northern Cardinal as the official state bird of Virginia. This decision aligned Virginia with seven other states—Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, West Virginia, and Maine—that have also chosen the cardinal as their avian emblem. The timing coincided with a growing national interest in backyard birding and environmental awareness during the post-war era.

Biological Profile of the Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is a medium-sized songbird belonging to the family Cardinalidae. Adults typically measure between 8 to 9 inches (21–23 cm) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 10 to 12 inches (25–31 cm). Males are easily identified by their vivid crimson-red plumage, black face mask, and prominent crest. Females, while more subdued in coloration, display warm tan-brown feathers accented with reddish tinges on the wings, tail, and crest, along with a similar facial pattern.

These birds are non-migratory and reside year-round in Virginia, making them a familiar sight in gardens, woodlands, shrublands, and urban parks. Their adaptability to human-modified environments has contributed significantly to their visibility and popularity. Unlike many bird species that molt seasonally or migrate south, cardinals remain active even during winter months, often seen perched atop evergreen trees or feeding at backyard feeders.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Northern Cardinals are primarily granivorous, meaning they consume seeds as a staple part of their diet. They show a strong preference for sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, cracked corn, and millet. During spring and summer, they supplement their diet with insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars—especially when feeding young nestlings requiring higher protein intake.

To attract cardinals to your yard in Virginia, consider using platform feeders or large hopper feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds. Avoid tube feeders with small perches, as cardinals prefer open feeding spaces. Placing feeders near dense shrubs or thickets provides cover from predators like hawks and domestic cats.

Vocalizations and Behavior

One of the most distinguishing traits of the Northern Cardinal is its rich, melodic song. Both males and females sing, which is relatively uncommon among North American songbirds. Their calls consist of clear whistles, often described as sounding like “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie.” These vocalizations serve multiple purposes: defending territory, attracting mates, and maintaining pair bonds.

Cardinals are monogamous and often form long-term pair bonds. Some mated pairs stay together throughout the year and may reuse nesting sites. Breeding occurs from March through September, with two to three broods raised annually. Nests are cup-shaped structures built low in shrubs or vines, constructed from twigs, leaves, bark strips, and grasses.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance in Virginia

Beyond its biological attributes, the Northern Cardinal holds deep symbolic value in Virginia and across the United States. Its bright red plumage has been associated with vitality, passion, and spiritual renewal. In various Native American traditions, seeing a cardinal is believed to signify good fortune or a message from a departed loved one. This symbolism resonates particularly during winter, when the bird’s red feathers contrast sharply against snow-covered landscapes.

In modern Virginian culture, the cardinal appears on state promotional materials, university insignias, and local sports team logos. It is frequently featured in holiday cards, garden art, and children’s literature, reinforcing its status as a beloved symbol of natural heritage. Schools across Virginia incorporate the cardinal into science curricula, teaching students about taxonomy, ecology, and civic pride.

Where and When to Observe Northern Cardinals in Virginia

Because Northern Cardinals are non-migratory and highly adaptable, they can be observed throughout all 95 counties of Virginia. However, sightings are most frequent in areas with mixed woodland edges, hedgerows, and residential neighborhoods offering reliable food sources and shelter.

The best times to spot cardinals are early morning and late afternoon, when they are most active in foraging. Winter months offer optimal viewing conditions due to leafless trees and increased use of bird feeders. Urban centers like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Roanoke report high densities of resident cardinals, especially in neighborhoods with mature landscaping.

For serious birdwatchers, visiting protected natural areas enhances the experience. Recommended locations include:

• James River Park System (Richmond): Offers riparian habitats where cardinals forage alongside other songbirds.
• Shenandoah National Park: While higher elevations host fewer cardinals, lower trails near Big Meadows provide excellent opportunities.
\li>Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (Virginia Beach): Supports diverse birdlife, including coastal populations of cardinals.
• Prince William Forest Park: Features extensive forest understory ideal for cardinal nesting.

Conservation Status and Environmental Considerations

The Northern Cardinal is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Populations in Virginia remain stable, thanks in part to conservation efforts, legal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and widespread public support.

However, potential threats exist. Habitat fragmentation due to suburban development can reduce available nesting sites. Pesticide use may indirectly affect cardinal health by reducing insect availability for chicks. Additionally, window collisions pose a significant risk, particularly in urban and suburban settings.

Residents can help protect cardinals by implementing bird-safe practices:

• Install window decals or UV-reflective films to prevent collisions.
• Avoid chemical pesticides in favor of integrated pest management.
• Maintain native plant species such as dogwood, sumac, and holly, which provide berries and cover.
• Keep outdoor cats indoors or supervised to minimize predation.

Feature	Northern Cardinal Traits
Scientific Name	Cardinalis cardinalis
Length	8–9 inches (21–23 cm)
Wingspan	10–12 inches (25–31 cm)
Weight	1.5–1.7 oz (42–48 g)
Lifespan (wild)	3–5 years (up to 15 years recorded)
Migration Pattern	Non-migratory (resident year-round)
Primary Diet	Seeds, grains, insects
Nesting Season	March–September
Clutch Size	2–5 eggs
State Symbol Since	January 23, 1950

Common Misconceptions About Virginia’s State Bird

Despite its fame, several myths persist about the Northern Cardinal:

• Misconception 1: Cardinals migrate south for winter. False. Northern Cardinals are permanent residents in Virginia and do not migrate.
• Misconception 2: Only male cardinals sing. Incorrect. Female cardinals sing regularly, often from the nest, possibly to communicate with their mate.
• Misconception 3: The cardinal was always Virginia’s state bird. Not true. Before 1950, Virginia did not have an official state bird.
• Misconception 4: Cardinals are rare or endangered. No. They are abundant and expanding their range northward due to climate change and supplemental feeding.

How to Support Citizen Science and Bird Monitoring Efforts

Virginians can contribute valuable data to ornithological research by participating in citizen science initiatives. Programs such as the Christmas Bird Count, organized by the National Audubon Society, and the eBird platform managed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology allow individuals to log cardinal sightings and help track population trends.

To get involved:

1. Create a free account on eBird.org.
2. Record your observations using date, location, and number of cardinals seen.
3. Participate in annual events like the Great Backyard Bird Count (February).
4. Join local chapters of the Audubon Society or Virginia Society of Ornithology.

These contributions aid scientists in understanding how urbanization, climate shifts, and habitat loss impact bird populations over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Virginia choose the Northern Cardinal as its state bird?

Virginia selected the Northern Cardinal in 1950 due to its widespread presence, striking appearance, and popularity among residents. It symbolizes the state’s natural beauty and ecological diversity.

Do female Northern Cardinals look different from males?

Yes. Males are bright red with a black face mask, while females are tan or olive-brown with reddish highlights on wings and tail. Both sexes have crests and similar body shapes.

Can I see Northern Cardinals year-round in Virginia?

Absolutely. Northern Cardinals are non-migratory and live in Virginia throughout the year, making them one of the most reliably observed birds in the state.

What kind of bird feeder attracts cardinals?

Platform feeders or large hopper feeders work best. Fill them with black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, or cracked corn placed near shrubs for safety.

Is it legal to keep a Northern Cardinal as a pet?

No. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it is illegal to capture, possess, or harm Northern Cardinals without federal permit. They are protected wildlife species.

In conclusion, the Northern Cardinal proudly represents Virginia as its official state bird—a symbol of enduring beauty, ecological resilience, and cultural connection to nature. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious observer, spotting this vibrant red songster in your backyard or local park offers a meaningful glimpse into the natural world that surrounds us. By understanding its biology, supporting conservation, and engaging in responsible observation, Virginians can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the presence of their cherished state bird.