The State Bird of Virginia is the Northern Cardinal

The state bird of Virginia is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), a striking red songbird that was officially designated as the Commonwealth’s avian symbol in 1950. This selection reflects both the bird’s widespread visibility across Virginia’s diverse landscapes and its deep cultural resonance with residents. Known for its bright plumage, distinctive crest, and melodious call, the Northern Cardinal is one of the most easily recognized birds in North America, making it a fitting emblem for the state. As a non-migratory species, it can be observed throughout the year in backyards, woodlands, and suburban parks, contributing to its popularity among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

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

The journey to selecting the Northern Cardinal as Virginia’s official state bird began in the mid-20th century, during a period when many U.S. states were formalizing their official symbols. Prior to 1950, Virginia did not have an officially recognized state bird, despite growing public interest in adopting one that represented local wildlife and natural heritage. In 1949, the Virginia General Assembly initiated discussions on designating a state bird, prompted by advocacy from schoolchildren, conservation groups, and ornithological societies.

Several bird species were considered, including the Eastern Bluebird and the American Robin, but the Northern Cardinal emerged as the top choice due to its abundance, visual appeal, and symbolic value. On January 25, 1950, House Joint Resolution No. 37 was passed, officially naming the Northern Cardinal as the state bird of Virginia. The resolution highlighted the bird’s “brilliant plumage” and “pleasing song,” noting its year-round residency and adaptability to various habitats within the state.

This decision aligned Virginia with several other eastern and midwestern states—such as West Virginia, Kentucky, and Illinois—that had also chosen the Northern Cardinal as their state bird, underscoring its regional significance and broad appeal.

Biological Characteristics of the Northern Cardinal

To fully appreciate why the Northern Cardinal was selected as Virginia’s state bird, it's important to understand its biological traits. Cardinalis cardinalis belongs to the family Cardinalidae and is a medium-sized songbird, typically measuring between 8 to 9 inches in length with a wingspan of about 10 to 12 inches. Males are easily identified by their vivid crimson feathers, prominent crest, black face mask, and bright orange beak. Females, while more subdued in coloration, display warm tan-brown plumage with reddish tinges on the wings, tail, and crest, along with a similarly colored beak.

One of the most notable features of the Northern Cardinal is sexual dimorphism—the marked difference in appearance between males and females—which is relatively rare among songbirds. Both sexes sing, which is unusual; female cardinals often vocalize to communicate with mates or defend territory, adding complexity to their social behavior.

Northern Cardinals are non-migratory, meaning they remain in Virginia throughout all seasons. They thrive in a variety of environments, including deciduous forests, hedgerows, gardens, and urban areas. Their diet consists primarily of seeds, grains, fruits, and insects, making them frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders—especially those stocked with sunflower seeds.

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Cardinalis cardinalis
Length	8–9 inches (20–23 cm)
Wingspan	10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
Lifespan	3–5 years (up to 15 years in rare cases)
Diet	Seeds, berries, insects, grains
Habitat	Woodlands, gardens, shrublands, urban areas
Status in Virginia	Year-round resident, common

Cultural and Symbolic Significance in Virginia

Beyond its biological attributes, the Northern Cardinal holds strong symbolic meaning in Virginia culture. Its brilliant red color has long been associated with vitality, passion, and resilience—qualities that resonate with the spirit of the Commonwealth. In folklore, seeing a cardinal is often interpreted as a sign of hope, renewal, or even a visit from a departed loved one, reinforcing its emotional connection to people across generations.

The bird’s presence in winter months, when most other songbirds have migrated south, adds to its symbolic endurance. While snow blankets the ground, the flash of red against white scenery makes the cardinal a beacon of life and continuity. This visibility during colder seasons likely contributed to its appeal as a state symbol—one that represents perseverance through adversity.

In addition, the Northern Cardinal appears frequently in Virginia art, literature, and educational materials. It is celebrated in local festivals, featured on state-produced nature guides, and used in environmental education programs to teach children about native wildlife. Schools across Virginia often include the cardinal in lessons about state symbols, helping instill civic pride and ecological awareness from an early age.

Where and When to See the Northern Cardinal in Virginia

Because the Northern Cardinal is a permanent resident, it can be observed in every region of Virginia throughout the year. However, certain times and locations increase your chances of spotting one.

• Best Time of Day: Early morning and late afternoon are optimal for observing cardinals, as they are most active during these periods, especially around feeding times.
• Preferred Habitats: Look for them near forest edges, overgrown fields, thickets, and residential areas with mature trees and shrubs. They favor dense cover for nesting and protection.
• Backyard Birdwatching Tips: Install a seed feeder filled with black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, or cracked corn. Place the feeder near bushes or trees to provide nearby shelter. Cardinals prefer platform or hopper feeders over tube feeders.
• Seasonal Behavior: During spring and summer, listen for their clear, whistled songs—often described as sounding like “what-cheer, what-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie.” In winter, their bright plumage stands out against bare branches and snow, making visual identification easier.

Popular birding locations in Virginia where Northern Cardinals are commonly seen include Shenandoah National Park, Great Falls Park, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and the James River Park System in Richmond. These areas offer excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced birdwatchers to observe cardinals in natural settings.

Conservation Status and Environmental Importance

The Northern Cardinal is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating stable populations across its range. In Virginia, there are no major threats to its survival, thanks in part to habitat preservation efforts and the bird’s ability to coexist with human development.

However, potential risks do exist. Habitat loss due to urban sprawl, pesticide use, window collisions, and predation by domestic cats can impact local populations. Climate change may also influence food availability and breeding patterns over time.

Supporting cardinal conservation involves simple actions:

• Plant native shrubs and trees such as dogwood, holly, sumac, and viburnum to provide food and shelter.
• Keep outdoor cats indoors to reduce predation.
• Use window decals or screens to prevent bird collisions.
• Participate in citizen science projects like the Audubon Christmas Bird Count or eBird to help monitor population trends.

By fostering bird-friendly environments, Virginians can ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty and symbolism of their state bird.

Common Misconceptions About the Northern Cardinal

Despite its familiarity, several misconceptions surround the Northern Cardinal. One common myth is that only male cardinals sing. In reality, both males and females sing, though males tend to sing more frequently, especially during courtship and territorial defense. Female cardinals often sing from the nest, possibly to coordinate with their mate or signal needs.

Another misconception is that cardinals migrate. Unlike many songbirds, Northern Cardinals are sedentary and maintain territories year-round. If you see a cardinal in Virginia in December, it’s likely the same individual you might have seen in June.

Some also believe that seeing a cardinal brings guaranteed good luck. While culturally meaningful, this belief varies widely and should not overshadow scientific understanding of the bird’s ecology and behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When did the Northern Cardinal become the state bird of Virginia?

The Northern Cardinal was officially adopted as Virginia’s state bird on January 25, 1950, following the passage of House Joint Resolution No. 37.

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

Virginia chose the Northern Cardinal for its striking appearance, year-round presence, pleasant song, and widespread distribution across the state. It symbolizes resilience and natural beauty.

Are Northern Cardinals found throughout Virginia?

Yes, Northern Cardinals are found in all regions of Virginia, from the coastal plains to the Appalachian Mountains. They are common in both rural and urban environments.

Do female Northern Cardinals have red feathers?

Female Northern Cardinals are primarily tan or brown but have reddish highlights on their wings, tail, and crest. They lack the full red plumage of males but share the same crest and orange beak.

How can I attract Northern Cardinals to my yard in Virginia?

You can attract Northern Cardinals by offering sunflower seeds or safflower seeds in platform or hopper feeders, planting dense shrubs for cover, and providing a reliable water source like a birdbath.