Northern Cardinal

Species Details

Probably the most easily recognized songbird of the eastern US. The brilliant red male has a heavy, seed-cracking bill and pointed crest, and sings a loud “tu-tu-tu” or “what-cheer, what-cheer” among sharp chip notes. The duller, liver-colored female builds a hidden nest of twigs, leaves, and bark strips in a low shrub or tree with occasional help from the male, with whom she mates for life.