What Is the State Bird of North Carolina? Answer & Facts

The state bird of North Carolina is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). Officially adopted in 1943, the Northern Cardinal stands as a beloved symbol of the Tar Heel State, recognized for its vibrant red plumage and distinctive crest. This non-migratory songbird is not only a common sight in backyards across North Carolina but also holds deep cultural significance, frequently appearing in regional art, sports team emblems, and holiday imagery. As one of several states to claim the Northern Cardinal as its official bird, North Carolina’s choice reflects both ecological presence and public affection—a natural longtail keyword variant being 'what is the official state bird of North Carolina and when was it adopted.'

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

The designation of the Northern Cardinal as North Carolina’s state bird dates back to 1943, during a period when many U.S. states were formalizing their official symbols. The decision followed a grassroots movement supported by schoolchildren, nature clubs, and ornithological societies who advocated for a native bird that was both visually striking and widely distributed throughout the state.

Prior to 1943, there was no official avian emblem for North Carolina. However, growing interest in state identity and conservation led legislators to consider symbolic species representative of local biodiversity. After evaluating candidates such as the mockingbird and the bobwhite quail, lawmakers chose the Northern Cardinal due to its year-round presence, melodious song, and unmistakable appearance—especially the male’s brilliant crimson feathers, which stand out vividly against winter landscapes.

The bill was signed into law without controversy, reflecting broad consensus among citizens and officials alike. Unlike some states that have changed their state birds over time, North Carolina has maintained this selection consistently since its adoption, underscoring enduring public support.

Biological Profile of the Northern Cardinal

To fully appreciate why the Northern Cardinal resonates so deeply with North Carolinians, it's essential to understand its biological traits and ecological role.

Scientific Classification:
Family: Cardinalidae
Genus: Cardinalis
Species: Cardinalis cardinalis

Physical Characteristics:
The male Northern Cardinal is easily identified by its bright red body, black face mask around the eyes and beak, and prominent crest. Females are more subdued in coloration—tan or olive-brown with reddish tinges on wings, tail, and crest—but share the same robust build and cone-shaped bill adapted for seed-eating.

Both sexes possess strong legs and short tails, averaging 8–9 inches in length with a wingspan of about 10–12 inches. Their call is a clear, whistled series of notes often described as sounding like 'what-cheer, what-cheer' or 'birdie-birdie-birdie.'

Habitat and Distribution:
Northern Cardinals thrive in mixed woodland edges, shrubby fields, suburban gardens, and urban parks—habitats abundant across North Carolina’s diverse geography, from the coastal plains to the Piedmont and lower elevations of the Appalachian Mountains.

They are non-migratory, meaning they reside in the same territory year-round, making them a dependable presence even during colder months. This permanence enhances their appeal as a state symbol, representing continuity and resilience.

Diet and Feeding Behavior:
Primarily granivorous, cardinals feed on seeds, grains, and fruits. They frequent bird feeders, especially those offering sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, cracked corn, and millet. During breeding season, they supplement their diet with insects to provide protein for nestlings.

Interestingly, young cardinals may exhibit yellowish bills before maturity, and their plumage develops gradually over several molts. Some rare individuals display genetic mutations resulting in yellow or albino coloring, drawing attention from birdwatchers.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance in North Carolina

Beyond its biological attributes, the Northern Cardinal carries rich symbolic weight within North Carolina culture. Its bold red hue evokes vitality, passion, and courage—qualities often associated with state pride.

In folklore, spotting a cardinal is sometimes interpreted as a sign of good luck or a visit from a departed loved one, particularly around holidays. This spiritual association has embedded the bird in regional traditions, greeting cards, and memorial practices.

Sports teams across the state, including high schools and colleges, frequently adopt the cardinal as a mascot. While the professional Arizona Cardinals bear the name, local teams in North Carolina proudly use cardinal imagery to represent tenacity and local identity.

Artists and designers incorporate the bird into textiles, pottery, and paintings, celebrating its aesthetic beauty. It also features prominently in environmental education programs, where children learn about native wildlife through stories and illustrations centered on the cardinal.

How to Observe the Northern Cardinal in North Carolina

For residents and visitors interested in seeing the state bird up close, numerous opportunities exist throughout the year. Here are practical tips for successful observation:

• Visit State Parks: Locations such as Umstead State Park near Raleigh, Jordan Lake Recreation Area, and Pilot Mountain State Park offer excellent habitats for cardinals. Trails lined with dense underbrush and berry-producing shrubs increase your chances of sightings.
• Set Up a Backyard Feeder: Install a platform or hopper feeder filled with black oil sunflower seeds. Place it near shrubbery to give birds cover while feeding. Avoid using pesticides, as these can harm insect populations critical during nesting season.
• Listen for Calls: Learn to recognize the cardinal’s song and alarm calls. Males sing throughout the year, especially at dawn and dusk. A sharp 'chip!' note often signals the presence of predators or intruders.
• Optimal Viewing Times: Early morning and late afternoon are peak activity periods. Winter months offer improved visibility due to leafless trees, enhancing viewing conditions despite colder weather.
• Photography Tips: Use a telephoto lens (at least 300mm) and approach slowly. Cardinals often perch conspicuously on fence lines or treetops, providing ideal photo opportunities.

Participating in citizen science projects like Project FeederWatch or eBird allows observers to contribute valuable data while deepening their connection to local ecology.

Legal Protections and Conservation Status

The Northern Cardinal enjoys protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which prohibits capturing, killing, or possessing the bird—or its eggs, nests, and feathers—without federal authorization. Although not endangered, preserving habitat remains crucial as urban development continues to reshape landscapes.

In North Carolina, deforestation, pesticide use, and window collisions pose threats to cardinal populations. Simple actions such as installing window decals, planting native vegetation, and keeping cats indoors can significantly improve survival rates.

Conservation organizations like Audubon North Carolina promote initiatives aimed at protecting songbirds through land stewardship, policy advocacy, and community outreach. Supporting these efforts helps ensure future generations will continue to enjoy the sight and sound of the state bird.

Comparison with Other State Birds

While each U.S. state selects a unique bird (except seven that share the Northern Cardinal), North Carolina’s choice aligns closely with neighboring states in terms of symbolism and accessibility. Below is a comparative overview:

State	State Bird	Year Adopted	Shared Traits with NC
North Carolina	Northern Cardinal	1943	—
Virginia	Northern Cardinal	1950	Same species; widespread in Mid-Atlantic region
West Virginia	Northern Cardinal	1949	Shares forest-edge habitat preferences
Tennessee	Northern Cardinal	1933	First Southern state to adopt the cardinal
Kentucky	Northern Cardinal	1926	Earliest adoption among cardinal states
Illinois	Northern Cardinal	1929	Popular garden bird; sings frequently
Indiana	Northern Cardinal	1933	Symbolizes perseverance and beauty
Ohio	Northern Cardinal	1933	Common backyard visitor

This table illustrates how the Northern Cardinal transcends regional boundaries, uniting multiple states through shared appreciation for a single iconic species. Its repeated selection underscores adaptability, visibility, and emotional resonance.

Common Misconceptions About the State Bird

Despite its popularity, several misconceptions persist about the Northern Cardinal in North Carolina:

• Misconception 1: 'The cardinal migrates south for winter.'
  Reality: Cardinals are permanent residents. They do not migrate and can survive cold temperatures if food and shelter are available.
• Misconception 2: 'Only males are red.'
  Reality: While males are uniformly red, females have warm reddish highlights on wings and tail, aiding identification.
• Misconception 3: 'Cardinals are protected because they are rare.'
  Reality: They are not rare but are legally protected under federal treaty obligations regardless of population size.
• Misconception 4: 'Seeing a cardinal means someone died.'
  Reality: This belief stems from anecdotal folklore, not scientific evidence. While meaningful to some, it lacks empirical basis.

Understanding these distinctions fosters informed respect for the species beyond myth and sentimentality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When did North Carolina officially adopt the Northern Cardinal as its state bird?
A: North Carolina adopted the Northern Cardinal as its official state bird in 1943.

Q: Is the Northern Cardinal found throughout all regions of North Carolina?
A: Yes, the Northern Cardinal inhabits every region of the state, from coastal areas to mountainous zones, thanks to its adaptability to various environments.

Q: Can I keep a Northern Cardinal as a pet?
A: No. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, it is illegal to capture, possess, or sell native wild birds like the Northern Cardinal without special permits.

Q: Why do male cardinals appear brighter than females?
A: Bright plumage in males serves to attract mates and defend territory. Female dullness provides camouflage while nesting, increasing reproductive success.

Q: What should I do if I find an injured cardinal?
A: Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Do not attempt to care for it yourself, as improper handling can cause further harm or violate federal laws.