The Cardinal Is the State Bird of Seven U.S. States

The northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is the official state bird of seven U.S. states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. This vibrant red songbird, known for its distinctive crest and clear whistling calls, has become a beloved symbol across the eastern United States. As one of the most frequently searched state bird queries online, “what state bird is the cardinal” reflects widespread public interest in both its cultural significance and biological traits. In this comprehensive guide, we explore why the cardinal was chosen by so many states, its ecological role, how to identify it in the wild, and where and when to observe it.

Historical Background: How the Cardinal Became a State Symbol

The adoption of the northern cardinal as a state bird occurred over several decades, beginning in the early 20th century. Each state made its selection through legislative action, often following campaigns by schoolchildren, ornithological societies, or women's clubs that advocated for native species to represent regional identity.

• Illinois was the first to designate the cardinal as its state bird in 1929, after a vote by schoolchildren favored it over other candidates like the meadowlark.
• Indiana followed in 1933, selecting the cardinal for its year-round presence and striking appearance.
• Kentucky adopted the cardinal in 1926, making it one of the earliest states to do so.
• North Carolina chose the cardinal in 1943, citing its popularity among residents and its non-migratory nature.
• Ohio officially named the cardinal its state bird in 1933, replacing the bobolink.
• Virginia designated the cardinal in 1950, emphasizing its association with resilience and beauty.
• West Virginia completed the list in 1949, joining neighboring states in honoring the same avian emblem.

This widespread adoption underscores the bird’s deep cultural resonance, particularly in the Southeast and Midwest, where it is a familiar backyard visitor.

Why the Northern Cardinal Stands Out Among State Birds

Of all the birds considered for state honors, the northern cardinal is the most commonly chosen. No other bird holds the title in more than two states—except the cardinal, with seven. Its appeal lies in a combination of visual beauty, vocal charm, and ecological adaptability.

Unlike many songbirds that migrate south during winter, cardinals are permanent residents throughout much of their range. This makes them highly visible year-round, reinforcing their symbolic connection to endurance and constancy. Their bright red plumage (in males) stands out vividly against snow-covered landscapes, making them especially cherished during colder months.

In addition, both male and female cardinals sing—a rare trait among songbirds—adding to their allure. The female’s complex, warbling song often includes clicks, whistles, and trills, and she may sing from the nest, possibly to communicate with her mate.

Biological Profile: Identifying the Northern Cardinal

To fully appreciate what state bird is the cardinal, it helps to understand its physical and behavioral characteristics.

Appearance

• Male: Bright crimson-red feathers with a black face mask extending from the eyes to the throat. The bill is short, thick, and coral-red.
• Female: Mostly tan or olive-brown with warm reddish tinges on wings, tail, and crest. She also has a black face mask and red bill.
• Size: About 8–9 inches long with a wingspan of 10–12 inches. Weight averages between 1.5 and 2 ounces.

Habitat and Range

Northern cardinals inhabit woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands across the eastern and central United States, extending into parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and southern California. They have also expanded their range northward into New England and southern Canada due to milder winters and increased bird feeding.

They prefer areas with dense thickets for nesting and open spaces for foraging. Backyard feeders stocked with sunflower seeds are a major draw.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

Cardinals are primarily granivorous, meaning they eat seeds, but they also consume fruits and insects, especially during breeding season when protein is needed for growing chicks.

Common food sources include:\p>

• Sunflower seeds (especially black oil sunflower seeds)
• Millet, safflower, cracked corn
• Berries from dogwood, sumac, and mulberry trees
• Insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and spiders

They typically feed on or near the ground and favor platform or hopper feeders that provide ample perching space.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance of the Cardinal

Beyond its status as a state bird, the northern cardinal carries rich symbolic meaning in American culture. Many people view sightings of cardinals as spiritual messages, often associated with loved ones who have passed away. This belief, while not scientific, has deep roots in folklore and personal testimony.

In Christian symbolism, the red plumage is sometimes interpreted as representing the blood of Christ or divine love. Others associate the bird with vitality, passion, and monogamy—cardinals often mate for life and are seen together in pairs.

The cardinal is also a popular motif in art, jewelry, sports teams (e.g., the St. Louis Cardinals), and holiday decorations, further embedding it in national consciousness.

How to Spot and Attract Cardinals in Your Yard

If you live within the cardinal’s range, attracting these birds to your yard is both feasible and rewarding. Here are practical tips based on decades of ornithological observation.

1. Provide the Right Food

Use feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds, which are high in fat and easy for cardinals to crack open. Safflower seeds are another excellent option, as they are less attractive to squirrels and invasive starlings.

2. Choose the Right Feeder Type

Cardinals prefer large, sturdy feeders with wide perches. Platform feeders, dome feeders with trays, or tube feeders with broad landing areas work best. Avoid narrow mesh or small ports that don’t accommodate their size.

3. Offer Shelter and Nesting Sites

Plant native shrubs and evergreens such as holly, cedar, dogwood, and viburnum. These provide cover from predators and harsh weather, as well as potential nesting sites.

4. Maintain Water Sources

A shallow birdbath—even one just 1–2 inches deep—is highly attractive. Consider adding a heater in winter to keep water accessible during freezing temperatures.

5. Minimize Threats

Keep cats indoors and place feeders at least 10 feet from windows to reduce collision risks. Use window decals if strikes are common.

State	Year Adopted	Notable Fact
Illinois	1929	First state to adopt the cardinal
Indiana	1933	Chosen for year-round visibility
Kentucky	1926	Early adopter; strong cultural ties
North Carolina	1943	Selected after public input
Ohio	1933	Replaced the bobolink
Virginia	1950	Symbolizes beauty and resilience
West Virginia	1949	Final of the seven states

Seasonal Behavior and Breeding Patterns

Understanding the annual cycle of the northern cardinal enhances your ability to observe and support them.

• Spring (March–May): Breeding season begins. Males establish territories and sing frequently at dawn. Pairs build nests in dense shrubs, usually 1–15 feet above ground.
• Summer (June–August): Females lay 2–5 eggs per clutch and may raise 2–3 broods per year. Both parents feed the young.
• Fall (September–November): Juveniles disperse. Cardinals begin forming loose flocks and visit feeders more regularly as natural food becomes scarce.
• Winter (December–February): Cardinals remain active and highly visible, especially males against snowy backdrops. Feeder use peaks during cold spells.

Common Misconceptions About Cardinals

Despite their familiarity, several myths persist about cardinals.

• Myth: Seeing a cardinal brings good luck.
  Reality: While culturally meaningful, there is no scientific basis for luck-based interpretations.
• Myth: All cardinals are red.
  Reality: Only males are bright red; females are brownish with red accents.
• Myth: Cardinals migrate.
  Reality: They are non-migratory and typically stay within a mile of their birthplace for life.
• Myth: Cardinals are only found in the South.
  Reality: Their range extends into southern Canada and the northeastern U.S., thanks to climate change and human-provided resources.

Conservation Status and Environmental Challenges

The northern cardinal is currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Populations are stable or increasing in most areas, partly due to suburbanization creating ideal edge habitats.

However, threats remain:

• Habitat loss: Urban development reduces shrubby understory crucial for nesting.
• Window collisions: Cardinals are frequent victims due to territorial behavior and reflective glass.
• Climate change: Alters food availability and may shift ranges over time.
• Pesticide use: Reduces insect populations essential for chick development.

Supporting native plants, reducing chemical use, and promoting bird-safe building practices can help ensure cardinals thrive for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What state bird is the cardinal?

The northern cardinal is the official state bird of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia.

When did states adopt the cardinal as their state bird?

The adoptions occurred between 1926 (Kentucky) and 1950 (Virginia), with most happening in the 1930s and 1940s.

Do female cardinals sing?

Yes, female cardinals sing—uncommon among songbirds—and often do so while on the nest, likely to coordinate with their mates.

Why is the cardinal so popular as a state bird?

Its bright color, year-round presence, pleasant song, and wide distribution make it a favorite across multiple regions.

Can I attract cardinals to my backyard?

Yes. Provide sunflower seeds, sheltered feeding areas, native shrubs, and a clean water source to successfully attract cardinals.