The state bird of Illinois is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), a vibrant red songbird known for its striking appearance and melodic calls. Chosen as the official state bird in 1929, the Northern Cardinal stands out not only for its brilliant plumage but also for its widespread presence throughout Illinois all year long. This selection reflects both public sentiment and biological significance, making the cardinal a symbol deeply rooted in Illinois’ natural and cultural identity. As one of the most recognizable birds in North America, the Northern Cardinal serves as an excellent example of how state symbols can highlight regional biodiversity while resonating with residents on an emotional level. The question what is the state bird of Illinois is more than just a trivia fact—it opens the door to understanding local ecology, conservation efforts, and the role birds play in American heritage.
Historical Background: How the Northern Cardinal Became Illinois’ State Bird
The designation of the Northern Cardinal as Illinois’ state bird dates back to 1929, when it was officially adopted by the Illinois General Assembly. However, the process leading up to this decision began years earlier through grassroots campaigns involving schoolchildren, birdwatching clubs, and nature enthusiasts. In the early 20th century, there was a growing movement across the United States to select official state symbols—ranging from flowers and trees to birds—as a way to foster civic pride and environmental awareness.
In Illinois, thousands of schoolchildren participated in a statewide vote organized by the Illinois Audubon Society and supported by educators. Among several native bird species considered—including the Bobwhite Quail, Eastern Bluebird, and American Goldfinch—the Northern Cardinal emerged as the overwhelming favorite. Its bright red feathers, bold personality, and frequent appearances in backyards made it a beloved choice among young voters. Lawmakers honored the outcome of this democratic exercise, formalizing the cardinal’s status under Public Act 261.
This historical moment marked a shift toward greater public involvement in environmental decisions. Unlike many state symbols chosen solely by legislators, Illinois’ state bird was selected through direct engagement with citizens, particularly youth. This precedent underscored the importance of education and community input in shaping state identity.
Biological Profile of the Northern Cardinal
To fully appreciate why the Northern Cardinal was chosen, it's essential to understand its biology and behavior. Cardinalis cardinalis belongs to the family Cardinalidae and is a non-migratory passerine bird found widely across eastern and central North America. Males are easily identified by their vivid crimson plumage, prominent crest, and black facial mask around the eyes and throat. Females, though less flamboyant, display warm tan-brown coloring with reddish tinges on the wings, tail, and crest, along with a similar facial pattern.
One of the cardinal’s most distinctive traits is its strong, cone-shaped bill adapted for cracking seeds—a key reason they thrive at bird feeders. They primarily consume weed seeds, grains, and fruits, supplementing their diet with insects during breeding season. Their vocalizations are equally notable; both males and females sing complex songs composed of clear whistles like “what-cheer, what-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie.” Female cardinals often sing from the nest, possibly to communicate with mates or regulate incubation breaks.
Northern Cardinals form monogamous pairs that may stay together year-round and sometimes for life. Breeding occurs between March and September, with females laying 2–5 eggs per clutch and raising multiple broods annually. Nests are built low in dense shrubs or vines, constructed from twigs, grasses, and bark fibers. Because they do not migrate, cardinals provide consistent avian activity even in winter, enhancing their appeal as backyard wildlife.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Beyond its biological attributes, the Northern Cardinal carries rich symbolic meaning in American culture—and particularly in Illinois. Red birds have long been associated with vitality, passion, and spiritual messages. Many people believe seeing a cardinal brings good luck or signifies the presence of a departed loved one, a notion popularized in folklore and literature.
In Illinois, the cardinal appears frequently in art, sports, and civic imagery. The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, though based across the river in Missouri, enjoys immense popularity in southwestern Illinois and reinforces regional attachment to the bird. Additionally, the Northern Cardinal is featured on holiday cards, garden ornaments, and educational materials throughout the state, reinforcing its role as a cultural icon.
The bird’s year-round visibility strengthens its symbolic connection to endurance and resilience. While many birds vanish with the seasons, the cardinal remains a constant companion, offering color and song even in the coldest months. This reliability mirrors values often celebrated in Midwestern identity: perseverance, simplicity, and deep ties to home.
Where and When to See Northern Cardinals in Illinois
For birdwatchers and nature lovers, spotting a Northern Cardinal in Illinois is both easy and rewarding. These birds are permanent residents found in every county of the state. They inhabit a variety of environments including woodlands, hedgerows, suburban gardens, parks, and riparian zones. Because they adapt well to human-modified landscapes, cardinals are especially common near homes with mature trees, shrubbery, and bird feeders.
The best times to observe cardinals are early morning and late afternoon when they are most active feeding and singing. During spring and summer, males perch conspicuously to defend territories and attract mates, making them easier to locate by sound. In winter, their bright red plumage contrasts sharply against snow-covered branches, providing excellent viewing opportunities.
Popular birding locations where Northern Cardinals are regularly seen include:
- Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge – Southern Illinois wetlands with diverse songbirds
- Starved Rock State Park – Wooded canyons and riverfront habitats near Utica
- Lake County Forest Preserves – Suburban green spaces north of Chicago
- Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge – Restored floodplain ecosystems along the Illinois River
Using binoculars and a field guide or mobile app (such as Merlin Bird ID or eBird) enhances identification accuracy and helps track seasonal patterns.
Supporting Cardinals: Conservation and Backyard Habitat Tips
While the Northern Cardinal is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, habitat loss and climate change pose potential threats over time. Fortunately, individuals can take meaningful steps to support healthy populations right in their own yards.
Here are practical tips for attracting and protecting Northern Cardinals:
- Provide food: Offer sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, cracked corn, and white proso millet in platform or hopper feeders. Cardinals prefer larger, sturdy feeders where they can perch comfortably.
- Create shelter: Plant native shrubs such as dogwood, sumac, holly, and viburnum to provide nesting sites and protection from predators.
- Maintain water sources: Install a shallow birdbath with fresh water, ideally heated in winter to remain accessible.
- Avoid pesticides: Chemical treatments reduce insect availability, which is crucial for feeding chicks during breeding season.
- Keep cats indoors: Domestic cats are a leading cause of bird mortality; keeping them inside protects cardinals and other wildlife.
Participating in citizen science projects like Project FeederWatch or the Great Backyard Bird Count also contributes valuable data to ornithologists studying population trends.
Common Misconceptions About the State Bird of Illinois
Despite its fame, several misconceptions surround the Northern Cardinal and its status as Illinois’ state bird. One common error is assuming it was chosen because of its association with sports teams like the St. Louis Cardinals. In reality, the bird was designated decades before the baseball team gained national prominence, and the team itself took its name from a flower (the cardinal flower), not the bird.
Another myth is that female cardinals don’t sing. Research has shown that females sing regularly, especially during nesting, although their songs tend to be softer and less studied than those of males.
Some also believe that cardinals are rare or protected by special laws due to their status. While they are safeguarded under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (which prohibits capturing, killing, or possessing them without permits), their legal protections are no different from most other native bird species.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cardinalis cardinalis |
| Year Adopted | 1929 |
| Selection Method | Voted by Illinois schoolchildren |
| Migration Pattern | Non-migratory (resident year-round) |
| Diet | Seeds, fruits, insects |
| Nesting Height | 1–15 feet above ground |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (IUCN) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Illinois choose the Northern Cardinal as its state bird?
Illinois chose the Northern Cardinal in 1929 after a statewide vote by schoolchildren who favored its bright colors, pleasant song, and year-round presence. It represented beauty, resilience, and accessibility to urban and rural residents alike.
Can you hunt the state bird of Illinois?
No, Northern Cardinals are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to hunt, trap, or possess them without a permit. They are not game birds and are valued primarily for ecological and aesthetic reasons.
Do Northern Cardinals live in cities and suburbs?
Yes, Northern Cardinals thrive in urban and suburban areas where there are trees, shrubs, and bird feeders. They adapt well to human environments and are commonly seen in neighborhoods across Illinois.
Are there other states that share the same state bird?
Yes, the Northern Cardinal is the state bird of six U.S. states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia—more than any other bird. This highlights its broad appeal across the eastern United States.
How can I tell a male from a female Northern Cardinal?
Male Northern Cardinals are bright red with a black face mask. Females are mostly tan or olive-brown with reddish hints on the wings, tail, and crest, and a lighter grayish-black mask. Both sexes have a prominent crest and orange-red beak.
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