What Is the Virginia State Bird? The Northern Cardinal

The Virginia state bird is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), a vibrant red songbird officially adopted in 1950. Known for its striking appearance and melodious call, the what is the virginia state bird query often leads to both symbolic and biological interest in this beloved species. This article explores not only the historical designation of the Northern Cardinal as Virginia’s state bird but also its ecological significance, cultural symbolism, and practical tips for observing it in the wild.

History and Official Designation

The Northern Cardinal was designated as the official state bird of Virginia on January 25, 1950, by an act of the Virginia General Assembly. It replaced no previous official bird, as Virginia had remained without one despite growing national trends toward adopting state symbols during the early 20th century. The decision followed years of advocacy from schoolchildren, naturalists, and civic organizations who admired the bird's beauty and year-round presence in the state.

Interestingly, Virginia was among seven U.S. states that selected the Northern Cardinal as their official bird—a testament to its widespread appeal across the eastern and central United States. The others include Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia. This regional consensus highlights the bird’s visibility and popularity, making searches like what is the virginia state bird frequently return comparative data with neighboring states.

Why the Northern Cardinal Was Chosen

Several factors contributed to the selection of the Northern Cardinal as Virginia’s state bird:

• Year-round residency: Unlike migratory birds, cardinals remain in Virginia throughout all seasons, symbolizing permanence and resilience.
• Vivid coloration: The male’s bright red plumage stands out against winter landscapes, making it easily recognizable and aesthetically pleasing.
• Pleasant song: Cardinals are known for their clear, whistling calls, often heard at dawn and dusk.
• Non-game status: As a non-hunted species, it represented conservation values important to mid-20th-century environmental awareness.

The choice reflected broader cultural sentiments valuing native wildlife and natural heritage. In classrooms across Virginia, students participated in campaigns promoting the cardinal over alternatives such as the Eastern Bluebird or Mockingbird, further solidifying public support.

Biological Profile of the Northern Cardinal

To fully understand why the Northern Cardinal earned its honored place, it's essential to examine its biological characteristics:

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Cardinalis cardinalis
Average 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 average; up to 15+ years recorded
Diet	Seeds, fruits, insects; frequent feeder visitors
Habitat	Woodland edges, gardens, shrublands, suburban areas
Nesting Behavior	Females build cup-shaped nests in dense foliage; lay 2–5 eggs per clutch
Vocalization	Males sing complex songs; both sexes produce alarm calls

One notable trait is sexual dimorphism: males are brilliant red with black facial markings, while females exhibit warm tan-brown feathers with reddish tinges on wings and tail. Despite their subdued coloring, female cardinals are equally vocal and play a crucial role in territory defense and chick rearing.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Beyond its official status, the Northern Cardinal carries deep cultural meaning in Virginia and across America. Many people associate sightings of cardinals with messages from loved ones who have passed away—a belief rooted in folklore rather than science, yet widely shared through personal stories and social media.

In Native American traditions, particularly among Algonquian-speaking tribes historically present in Virginia, red birds were seen as symbols of energy, vitality, and spiritual connection. While specific tribal records about cardinals are limited due to shifting ranges over centuries, modern interpretations often blend indigenous motifs with Christian symbolism, where the red plumage represents the blood of Christ.

Sporting teams, schools, and businesses in Virginia frequently use the cardinal as a mascot or logo, reinforcing regional identity. For example, numerous high schools in the Commonwealth bear names like “Cardinals” or feature cardinal imagery in uniforms and banners.

Where and When to See the Virginia State Bird

Observing the Northern Cardinal in Virginia is relatively easy due to its adaptability and abundance. Here are key tips for successful birdwatching:

Best Habitats

• Backyard feeders: Cardinals favor sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. Use platform or hopper feeders placed near cover.
• Edge environments: Look along forest borders, hedgerows, and stream corridors.
• Suburban neighborhoods: Well-landscaped yards with evergreen shrubs provide nesting and shelter opportunities.

Optimal Times of Day

Cardinals are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Their singing peaks at dawn, making these hours ideal for auditory identification. During winter months, they may visit feeders more frequently due to food scarcity.

Seasonal Considerations

Because cardinals do not migrate, they can be observed year-round. However, breeding season (April through August) brings increased territorial behavior and vocal activity. Males may aggressively defend feeding zones, sometimes attacking their reflections in windows—a common nuisance homeowners can mitigate with decals or temporary coverings.

Conservation Status and Environmental Challenges

The Northern Cardinal is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its population remains stable or increasing across much of its range, aided by human-altered landscapes that mimic preferred edge habitats.

However, potential threats exist:

• Habitat fragmentation: Urban sprawl reduces connectivity between green spaces.
• Window collisions: Brightly colored males are prone to fatal impacts with glass surfaces.
• Climate change: Shifts in temperature and precipitation could affect food availability and nesting success.
• Pesticide exposure: Chemicals used in lawns and gardens may reduce insect prey critical for nestlings.

Supporting local conservation efforts—such as planting native vegetation, reducing pesticide use, and participating in citizen science projects like Project FeederWatch—can help ensure the continued presence of Virginia’s state bird.

Common Misconceptions About the Virginia State Bird

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

• Misconception 1: “Cardinals are rare.” In reality, they are among the most commonly reported backyard birds in Virginia according to the Audubon Society’s annual surveys.
• Misconception 2: “Only males sing.” While males are more prolific singers, females also produce full songs, especially during nesting season.
• Misconception 3: “They’re tropical birds.” Although cardinals have expanded northward in recent decades, they are native to the southeastern United States, including Virginia.
• Misconception 4: “Seeing a cardinal means a spirit visit.” While emotionally meaningful to some, there is no scientific evidence supporting supernatural interpretations.

How to Attract Cardinals to Your Yard

If you want to welcome Virginia’s state bird into your outdoor space, consider these proven strategies:

1. Provide appropriate food: Offer black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, white proso millet, and cracked corn. Avoid mixes heavy in filler grains like wheat or oats.
2. Use suitable feeders: Platform, tray, or large hopper feeders work best. Tube feeders with short perches can also be effective.
3. Install water sources: Birdbaths—even shallow dishes—provide drinking and bathing opportunities, especially in winter if heated.
4. Create safe shelter: Plant dense shrubs like holly, viburnum, or dogwood to offer protection from predators and harsh weather.
5. Maintain consistent supply: Feed regularly, especially in colder months when natural food sources dwindle.

Patience is key—cardinals may take weeks or even months to discover and trust a new feeding station, particularly in areas with high predator activity.

Comparative Look: Other State Birds Nearby

Given that multiple states share the Northern Cardinal as their emblem, it's worth comparing how Virginia’s choice aligns regionally:

• Kentucky: Also chose the Northern Cardinal in 1926, citing similar reasons of beauty and familiarity.
• North Carolina: Selected the same bird in 1943, emphasizing its cheerful song and winter hardiness.
• Maryland: Chose the Baltimore Oriole, reflecting unique colonial history tied to Lord Baltimore’s coat of arms.
• Tennessee: Adopted the Northern Mockingbird, known for mimicry and bold personality.

This contrast shows how state bird selections reflect both ecological realities and cultural narratives. Searches related to what is the virginia state bird often expand into comparisons with nearby states, helping users understand regional biodiversity and symbolism.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Virginia adopt the Northern Cardinal as its state bird?

Virginia officially adopted the Northern Cardinal on January 25, 1950.

Is the Northern Cardinal found only in Virginia?

No, it is widespread across the eastern and central United States, parts of Mexico, and has expanded into southern Canada.

Do female Northern Cardinals have red feathers?

Yes, though less vividly than males, females display reddish hues on wings, tail, and crest.

Can I keep a Northern Cardinal as a pet?

No. It is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to capture, possess, or harm native songbirds without federal permits.

Why do I see cardinals more in winter?

With leaves gone, cardinals become more visible. Additionally, they rely more on feeders when natural food is scarce.

In conclusion, understanding what is the virginia state bird goes beyond memorizing a name—it invites appreciation of biology, history, culture, and stewardship. The Northern Cardinal embodies Virginia’s natural beauty and enduring spirit, making it a fitting symbol for the Commonwealth.