The northern cardinal is a popular state bird, chosen by 7 U.S. states as their official state bird. The northern cardinal is known for its bright red plumage and sweet song. They can be found across eastern North America. Let’s take a closer look at which states have the northern cardinal as their official state bird.
Quick Facts
Here are some quick facts about the northern cardinal as a state bird:
- 7 U.S. states have the northern cardinal as their official state bird
- Those states are: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia
- The northern cardinal was first designated as a state bird in 1929, when Kentucky adopted it
- Ohio was the last state to adopt the northern cardinal, doing so in 1933
- The northern cardinal is one of the most popular state birds, alongside the western meadowlark (in 6 states) and the American robin (in 3 states)
States that Have Adopted the Northern Cardinal
Here is more detail on the 7 states that have designated the northern cardinal as their official state bird:
Illinois
Illinois adopted the northern cardinal as its state bird in 1929. Cardinals are common across the state, especially in urban and suburban areas. As in other states, the bright red color of the male cardinal represents the sacrifice of soldiers in wartime. The Illinois state legislature also appreciated the cardinal’s cheerful song.
Indiana
Indiana state lawmakers selected the northern cardinal as their state bird in 1933. There were reported to be many more cardinals in Indiana compared to other Midwestern states at the time. The cardinal’s red color recalled the uniforms of Indiana’s Civil War soldiers. Some representatives also admired the bird’s singing ability.
Kentucky
In 1926, Kentucky schoolchildren voted to pick the northern cardinal as the state bird. Lawmakers made it official in 1929. Kentucky was the first state to adopt the northern cardinal. The bright red color represents the state’s famous horse racing industry. Kentucky’s state representatives also noted the cardinal’s pleasant song and year-round residence in the state.
North Carolina
North Carolina designated the northern cardinal as its state bird in 1943. Cardinals can be found throughout the state and in both rural and urban areas. As in other states, the cardinal’s red plumage symbolizes the blood of North Carolina’s soldiers. Its song provided cheer during the difficulties of World War II.
Ohio
Ohio schoolchildren selected the northern cardinal as the state bird in 1933. The state legislature approved the choice later that year. Ohio was reportedly home to an abundance of cardinals at the time. As in other states, the cardinal’s red color recalled the uniforms of Ohio’s Civil War regiments. Its song was also appreciated.
Virginia
The northern cardinal became Virginia’s state bird in 1950. Virginia schoolchildren picked the cardinal over the bobwhite in a statewide poll. Cardinals are common across Virginia. The male’s bright red plumage reminded Virginians of fallen soldiers and early settlers. Lawmakers also enjoyed the bird’s whistling song.
West Virginia
West Virginia adopted the northern cardinal as its state bird in 1949. Cardinals can be easily spotted across the state. In the words of the state legislature, the cardinal’s brilliant red color represents “the lifeblood of brave West Virginians.” Its song was also noted as a welcoming sound.
Population and Habitat
The northern cardinal has a large population and range in North America:
- There are estimated to be over 100 million northern cardinals across their habitat range
- Their breeding habitat covers the eastern half of the United States as well as south-central Canada, parts of Mexico, and the Caribbean islands
- Northern cardinals have also been expanding their range westward and can now be found in parts of the western U.S.
- They thrive in varied habitats including forests, thickets, suburban parks, and backyards
- Northern cardinals do not migrate and can be seen year-round across most of their range
The widespread presence of northern cardinals in backyards and urban parks is one reason they were favored as a state symbol in many areas.
Appearance and Behavior
Here are some key facts about the appearance and behavior of the northern cardinal:
- Males have bright red plumage with a pointed crest, black face mask, and heavy orange bill
- Females are tan with red accents in the wings, crest, and tail
- Northern cardinals measure 7 to 9 inches in length with a wingspan around 10 inches
- They typically live 3 to 4 years but can reach up to 15 years old
- Cardinals are territorial and non-migratory, residing in the same areas year-round
- They have a varied diet including seeds, berries, and insects
- The male’s loud whistling song marks its territory; females also sing
- Cardinals are monogamous and mate for life, raising 2 to 3 broods per breeding season
The northern cardinal’s recognizable appearance and habit of singing year-round contribute to its popularity across much of the eastern U.S.
Complete List of States with the Northern Cardinal as State Bird
For easy reference, here is the complete list of the 7 states that have designated the northern cardinal as their official state bird:
State | Year Adopted |
---|---|
Illinois | 1929 |
Indiana | 1933 |
Kentucky | 1929 |
North Carolina | 1943 |
Ohio | 1933 |
Virginia | 1950 |
West Virginia | 1949 |
Conclusion
The northern cardinal is a very popular choice to represent U.S. states, having been adopted by 7 states across the eastern half of the country. Male cardinals are easily recognized by their brilliant red plumage, which in many states symbolizes the bloodshed by soldiers. The northern cardinal’s whistling song, sociable nature, and year-round residence also contribute to its appeal. States with large cardinal populations were quick to designate it as their official state bird. The northern cardinal well represents the spirit and natural heritage of the 7 states honored to have it as their state symbol.