Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis Cardinalis)
Jan 7th, 2008 by Josey
Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a red-crested songbird found in the eastern half and the southwest regions of the United States. They also have small populations in California and Hawaii, thanks to human transportation. The Northern Cardinal is one of the most familiar birds at the back-yard bird feeder, and has developed a close association with people. This is one of the few birds believed to have benefited from domestic feeders.
The male Northern Cardinal is a brilliant red, and the females are brown with a reddish tint. They are approximately eight to nine inches long, and weigh approximately 1.5 ounces. The Northern Cardinal feeds on fruits, seeds, buds and insects. The beak of this bird is specialized to crush shells and extract seeds. Brighter red males hold territories with dense vegetation, feed at higher rates, and have greater reproductive success than duller males.
The female Northern Cardinal sings, often from the nest. The song is believed it give the male information on when to bring in food The female Northern Cardinal sings, often from the nest. The song is believed to give the to the nest, and also to warn off other females. A mated pair shares song phrases, but the females sings a longer and more complex song than the males. Songs are pure toned, whistled sounds. Males sing during courtship and to defend their territories. The males sing during courtship and to defend their territories. The males sing during courtship and to defend their territories. The male Northern Cardinal fiercely defends its breeding territory from other males. It has been known to light its own reflection in a mirror or glass for hours. During courtship, the male feeds the female seeds beak-t0-beak.
Northern Cardinals were once prized pets, but their sale as cage birds are banned in the United States by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
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by: Josey Layne