The cardinal is sometimes referred to as the 'winter red bird' due to its bright red plumage that stands out during the winter months when it is the only red bird present. It is a year-round resident of North Carolina, and one of the most common birds in gardens, lawns and forests. Northern cardinals typically measure between 8.9 and 9 inches in length, and research on bands has shown that they can live up to 15 years. Although they are more prevalent in the southeastern United States, cardinals can be found from Canada to the Gulf.
Males are bright red with black faces, while females are usually tan or light gray but have the same red ridges and black faces, with touches of red on their wings and tail. They are one of the few species of North American birds whose males and females both sing. Cardinals live in family groups and fiercely protect their territory from predators and other cardinals. If you come too close to a cardinal's nest, you may find yourself on the receiving end of an attack! Male cardinals also protect their breeding territory from intruders of their own species.
They also often mistake their reflection in mirrors or glass windows for an intruder and will attack it.The cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) was chosen by popular vote as the state bird of North Carolina on March 4, 1943.This decision was made easier thanks to the recommendation of The North Carolina Bird Club, which is enshrined in Chapter 145, Section 145-2 of the North Carolina General Statutes. The state chose this bird for its value to humans, as it eats weed seeds and chews garden insects.North Carolina didn't name a state bird until 1943, but a decade earlier it had a different state bird for a few days at least. This was when the Wright brothers chose North Carolina for their first flight, and Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run there in 1914.North Carolina has given this bird the title of state bird due to its services to the state. It is a colorful songbird that lives in the state all year round, providing beauty and joy to its citizens.
