Cardinals are among the most beloved birds in North America and are known for their bright colours and distinctive songs. While many people are familiar with northern cardinals, fewer know about two other cardinal species found on the continent: Pirruloxia and Red-crested cardinals: In this article, we explore three interesting species, their habitat, their behaviour and how you can attract them to your backyard. Whether you are an experienced birder or a casual nature enthusiast, there is much to learn about these beautiful birds.
The Northern Cardinal: The Iconic Red Bird
Overview
The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is the most recognized and widespread in North America. Found primarily in the eastern half of the United States and extending into Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and even parts of Mexico, the famously beautiful northern cardinal is popular with birders and nature lovers.
Appearance
Male northern cardinals are known for their bright red plumage, which has earned them the nickname “Red Birds.” Their vibrant colours contrast beautifully with the dark face masks and bold orange-red chatunda. Females, on the other hand, are more subdued, with slightly reddish brown plumage on the wings, tail and upperparts. Birds can sometimes see unusual colours, such as red cardinals, leucistic or albino cardinals, which add a special twist to their distinctive appearance.
Behaviour and Habitat
Northern Cardinals are non-migratory birds, meaning they can be observed year-round in their habitats. They thrive in woodland edges, gardens, and shrublands, where they find ample food and shelter. These birds are known for forming strong pair bonds and often mate for life. Their melodious songs are a common soundtrack in many neighbourhoods, making them a cherished presence in the avian community.
Attracting Northern Cardinals
To attract Northern Cardinals to your backyard, consider offering their favourite types of bird seed, such as sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. Cardinal feeders, which are designed to accommodate their size and feeding habits, can be strategically placed to invite these birds to visit regularly. Providing dense shrubs and trees for nesting and shelter will also encourage cardinals to make your yard their home.
The Pyrrhuloxia: The Desert Cardinal
Overview
Pyrhuloxia (Cardinalis sinuatus), commonly known as the desert cardinal, is a close relative of the northern cardinal. These birds inhabit the dry regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico and have successfully adapted to the harsh grasslands.
Appearance
Pyrruloxia is predominantly grey and has striking red stripes on its face, chest and wings. Males exhibit a more red mask and belly, while females have a more muted colour. Their distinctive roundness, red lips and clear tops make them easy to spot and distinguish from their cardinal cousins to the north.
Behaviour and Habitat
Unlike many birds, pirruloxia are not migratory and remain in their grassland habitats throughout the year. They are very adaptable and are found in a variety of habitats, including desert shrubs, mesquites, and coastal forests. Their diet consists of seeds, insects, berries and cactus fruit, allowing them to thrive in areas with limited moisture.
Attracting Pyrrhuloxias
To attract Pyrrhuloxias, offer a diverse mix of seeds, such as millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. Creating a desert-friendly landscape with native plants, such as mesquite and cacti, will provide the ideal habitat for these birds. Additionally, providing a water source, like a birdbath, can help attract Pyrrhuloxias and other desert birds to your yard.
The Red-Crested Cardinal: A Tropical Visitor
Overview
The Red-Crested Cardinal (Paroaria coronata) is a striking bird that, despite its name, is not closely related to the true cardinals of the Cardinalidae family. Native to South America, these birds have established populations in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, making them a unique sight for bird enthusiasts visiting these regions.
Appearance
Red-crested cardinals are easily identified by their distinctive red crests and faces, which contrast sharply with their dark grey and white plumage. This bold colouration resembles that of both Northern Cardinals and red-headed woodpeckers, adding to their exotic appeal.
Behaviour and Habitat
Red-crested cardinals are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, where they inhabit open woodlands, gardens, and urban areas. Their diet consists of seeds, fruits, and insects, which they forage for in the understory and on the ground. These birds are known for their inquisitive nature and are often seen in pairs or small groups.
Attracting Red-Crested Cardinals
To attract Red-Crested Cardinals, offer a variety of seeds and fruits, such as papaya and bananas, in a feeder. Creating a tropical garden with native plants and providing a consistent water source will encourage these birds to visit your yard. While they are less likely to appear in mainland North America, creating a bird-friendly environment can attract other tropical species as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardinals
What Do Cardinals Eat?
Cardinals have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, and insects. Northern Cardinals favour sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn, while Pyrrhuloxias enjoy a mix of seeds and cactus fruits. Red-crested cardinals prefer a combination of seeds and tropical fruits.
How Can I Differentiate Between Male and Female Cardinals?
In Northern Cardinals and Pyrrhuloxias, males are more brightly coloured than females, with vivid red plumage. Females are typically more subdued in colour, with brownish feathers accented with red. In Red-Crested Cardinals, both males and females have similar plumage, with bold red crests and faces.
Are Cardinals Aggressive?
Cardinals are generally not aggressive birds but can become territorial during the breeding season. Males may display aggressive behaviours to defend their nesting sites, but these actions are usually limited to short-lived displays rather than physical altercations.
Can Cardinals Be Kept as Pets?
Cardinals are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits the capture, sale, or keeping of wild birds as pets. Instead, enjoy these birds in their natural habitat by attracting them to your backyard with food and suitable environments.