Male Northern Cardinal

This male Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) was found in our Jatropha tree. Nancy took the shot while standing in our kitchen. The image was introduced in our blog post Our New Cardinal Image.

Cardinals are among the most common bird species in North America. They can be found in dense shrubby areas throughout the eastern half of the United States and Mexico, and even beyond. They have been expanding their range north since the mid-nineteenth century. Cardinals do not migrate. They are the official state bird of seven states (more than any other bird).

They are a mid-sized, long-tailed songbird with a short, thick, conical bill and a prominent crest. They average 8¾" long and about 1.6 ounces, with a wingspan of almost twelve inches. Females are slightly smaller than males. Females are grayish tan with red on wings, tail, and crest. Unlike most songbirds, the females also sing. These birds are omnivorous, eating mostly seeds (at feeders, they prefer sunflower seeds) and fruit. They supplement this diet with insects, which is mostly what they feed their young.

To order a print of this image, hit the button to the left. Before you do, you may want to check the maximum size estimates or what's currently in stock below. Each item in stock has its own order button.