The West Virginia State Bird is the Northern Cardinal

The official state bird of West Virginia is the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). This striking songbird, known for its brilliant red feathers and distinctive crest, was officially designated as the state bird in 1949, making it a symbol of natural beauty and resilience deeply rooted in West Virginian identity. The decision to choose the northern cardinal as the state bird of West Virginia reflected both public sentiment and the bird's widespread presence across the state’s forests, backyards, and mountainous regions.

Historical Background: How the Northern Cardinal Became West Virginia’s Symbol

West Virginia became the 35th state to adopt the northern cardinal as its official state bird—a distinction now shared with six other U.S. states, including Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Virginia. However, West Virginia was among the earlier adopters, formalizing the selection on June 15, 1949, through House Concurrent Resolution Number 22.

Prior to this designation, several birds were considered, including the American goldfinch and the tufted titmouse. However, the northern cardinal stood out due to its popularity among residents, its striking appearance, and its adaptability to diverse habitats within the state. Unlike migratory species that disappear during winter months, the northern cardinal remains present year-round, offering a consistent visual and auditory presence even in the coldest seasons—making it a fitting emblem of endurance and vitality.

The campaign to select an official state bird was driven by schoolchildren, conservation groups, and ornithological societies who advocated for a native species that represented the region’s ecological character. The cardinal’s bold coloration and melodic song made it a favorite among voters in informal polls conducted before the legislative decision.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Northern Cardinal

Beyond its symbolic value, the northern cardinal is a biologically fascinating bird. It belongs to the family Cardinalidae, which includes grosbeaks and buntings. Adult males are easily identified by their vivid crimson plumage, prominent crest, and black facial mask extending from the eyes to the throat. Females, while less flamboyant, display warm tan-brown feathers with reddish tinges on the wings, tail, and crest, along with a similarly shaped head profile.

These birds typically measure between 8 to 9 inches in length, with a wingspan of about 10 to 12 inches. They possess strong, cone-shaped bills ideal for cracking seeds—a key component of their omnivorous diet, which also includes insects, fruits, and berries.

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Cardinalis cardinalis
Average Length	8–9 inches (21–23 cm)
Wingspan	10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
Lifespan (wild)	3–5 years (up to 15+ in rare cases)
Diet	Seeds, grains, insects, fruits, berries
Nesting Season	March to August
Habitat Range in WV	Woodlands, gardens, shrublands, urban parks

Vocalizations and Behavior: What Makes Cardinals Unique

One of the most distinctive traits of the northern cardinal is its complex vocal repertoire. Both males and females sing—unusual among songbirds—using a series of clear whistles such as "what-cheer, what-cheer" or "purdy, purdy, purdy." Female cardinals often sing from the nest, possibly to communicate with mates or signal needs.

Cardinals are territorial and monogamous, frequently forming long-term pair bonds that may last multiple breeding seasons. During courtship, males may feed females beak-to-beak—a behavior known as “mate feeding”—which strengthens pair bonding.

Nesting occurs in dense shrubs or small trees, usually 1–15 feet above ground. The female builds the cup-shaped nest using twigs, leaves, grass, and bark strips, while the male stands guard and brings food. Two to four eggs are laid per clutch, incubated solely by the female for 12–13 days. Chicks fledge after approximately 9–11 days but remain dependent on parents for several weeks.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance in West Virginia

The adoption of the northern cardinal as West Virginia’s official state bird goes beyond aesthetics; it reflects broader cultural values. In Appalachian folklore, cardinals are often seen as messengers from loved ones who have passed, bringing comfort during times of grief. Their bright red plumage has been associated with fire, passion, and spiritual energy across various traditions.

In modern times, the cardinal appears on state-themed merchandise, educational materials, and nature tourism campaigns. Schools across West Virginia incorporate the bird into science curricula, teaching students about local biodiversity and conservation ethics. Moreover, the cardinal’s image graces license plates, welcome signs, and state park brochures, reinforcing regional pride.

The bird also serves as a unifying symbol across political and geographic lines within the state. Whether observed in the coalfields of southern West Virginia or the forested highlands near Canaan Valley, the cardinal is universally recognized and appreciated.

Where and When to See Northern Cardinals in West Virginia

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, spotting the northern cardinal in West Virginia is relatively easy due to its non-migratory habits and preference for edge habitats. The best time to observe them is during early morning and late afternoon hours when they are most active in feeding and singing.

Prime locations include:\p>

• Monongahela National Forest: Offers mixed hardwood forests interspersed with clearings where cardinals thrive.
• Greenbrier State Forest: Home to abundant understory vegetation ideal for nesting.
• Laurel Hill State Park (PA/WV border): A transitional zone with reliable sightings.
• Backyard feeders throughout the Shenandoah Valley region: Especially effective in winter when natural food sources dwindle.

Cardinals do not migrate, so they can be seen all year round. However, their visibility increases in winter when deciduous trees lose their leaves, exposing nests and perching sites. Additionally, males become more vocal during late winter as they establish territories ahead of the breeding season.

Tips for Attracting Cardinals to Your Yard

If you live in West Virginia and wish to attract northern cardinals to your property, consider these proven strategies:

1. Provide Sunflower Seeds: Cardinals strongly prefer black oil sunflower seeds. Use tube feeders with large perches or hopper feeders placed near cover.
2. Install Platform Feeders: These allow easier access than narrow ports and accommodate their larger body size.
3. Plant Native Shrubs: Include species like dogwood, hawthorn, sumac, and viburnum that offer shelter and natural food sources.
4. Maintain Evergreen Cover: Pines, spruces, and junipers provide protection from predators and harsh weather.
5. Add a Water Source: A shallow birdbath with fresh water encourages drinking and bathing, especially in summer and frozen-thaw cycles in winter.
6. Avoid Chemical Pesticides: These reduce insect populations essential for feeding young cardinals.

Keep feeders clean and regularly replenished, particularly in snowy conditions. Avoid placing feeders too close to windows to prevent fatal collisions—use decals or netting if necessary.

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), thanks to its wide distribution and stable population trends. Nevertheless, localized threats exist in West Virginia, including habitat fragmentation due to logging, mining activities, and suburban development.

Climate change may influence future range shifts, potentially pushing cardinals further north as temperatures rise. However, their adaptability to human-altered landscapes gives them a survival advantage over more specialized species.

Citizen science initiatives like the Christmas Bird Count and eBird help track cardinal populations across the state. Residents are encouraged to participate by reporting sightings, contributing valuable data for ecological monitoring.

Common Misconceptions About the West Virginia State Bird

Despite its fame, several myths persist about the northern cardinal in relation to West Virginia:

• Misconception: The cardinal was chosen because it appears on the state flag.
  Reality: West Virginia does not feature the cardinal on its official flag. The selection was based on biological and cultural relevance, not iconography.
• Misconception: Cardinals are only found in southern West Virginia.
  Reality: They are distributed statewide, from lowland valleys to higher elevations, though densities vary by habitat quality.
• Misconception: Female cardinals don’t sing.
  Reality: Females sing frequently, especially during nesting, and their songs play a role in pair coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When did West Virginia choose the northern cardinal as its state bird?

West Virginia officially adopted the northern cardinal as its state bird on June 15, 1949, via legislative resolution.

Why is the northern cardinal the state bird of West Virginia?

It was selected for its year-round presence, vibrant appearance, melodious song, and broad public appeal. Its resilience mirrors the spirit of the state’s people.

Do northern cardinals migrate out of West Virginia?

No, northern cardinals are non-migratory and reside in West Virginia throughout the year, making them a constant presence in both rural and urban environments.

Can I keep a northern cardinal as a pet?

No. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is illegal to capture, possess, or harm northern cardinals without federal permits. They are protected wildlife species.

How can I tell a male from a female northern cardinal?

Male northern cardinals have bright red plumage and a black face mask. Females are predominantly tan or olive-brown with reddish highlights on wings and tail, and lack the solid black mask.