VIRGINIA - Virginia is a state stretching from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains in the southeastern United States. It has a long Atlantic coastline and is home to one of the 13 original colonies. Visit Thomas Jefferson's plantation, Monticello, in Charlottesville or one of the state's living history museums, including Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement.
Virginia's Fiery Emblem: The Northern Cardinal, A State Symbol of Beauty and Song
Virginia, a state steeped in history and natural beauty, has chosen a vibrant and readily recognizable symbol as its state bird: the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis).
This medium-sized songbird, with its striking red plumage (in males) and distinctive crest, is a common sight throughout the Commonwealth, adding a splash of color and a cheerful melody to gardens, woodlands, and backyards. This article explores the characteristics, behavior, and significance of the Northern Cardinal, Virginia's official state bird since 1950.
A Bird of Striking Appearance
The Northern Cardinal is easily identified, particularly the male.
- Male Cardinal: The male cardinal is renowned for its brilliant red plumage, covering most of its body. This vibrant color is contrasted by a black mask around the face and a prominent, pointed crest on its head. It also possesses a large, conical bill, perfect for cracking seeds (Source: Cornell Lab of Ornithology, All About Birds).
- Female Cardinal: The female cardinal, while less dramatically colored, is equally elegant. She displays a more subdued, buff-brown plumage with reddish accents on her crest, wings, and tail. This sexual dimorphism (difference in appearance between males and females) is common in many bird species (Source: National Audubon Society Field Guide to Birds).
- Size: The Cardinal is a medium sized bird.
A Territorial Songster
The Northern Cardinal is not only visually striking but also vocally gifted.
- Distinctive Song: The male cardinal is known for its loud, clear, whistled song, often described as a series of repeated phrases like "cheer-cheer-cheer" or "birdie-birdie-birdie." This song serves to establish and defend territory, particularly during the breeding season (Source: Sibley Guide to Birds).
- Territoriality: Cardinals are very terriorial birds.
- Diet: They are known to feed on seeds, berries, and insects.
A Common Sight in Virginia
The Northern Cardinal, sometimes known as the Winter Redbird. The Northern Cardinal is a widespread and common bird throughout Virginia, inhabiting a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, thickets, and suburban areas (Source: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources). Its adaptability to different environments and its non-migratory nature make it a year-round resident, brightening even the coldest winter days.
Virginia's State Bird: A Symbol Since 1950
The Northern Cardinal was officially designated as Virginia's state bird in 1950, a recognition of its widespread presence, its striking beauty, and its cheerful song (Source: Code of Virginia, § 1-510). The cardinal's bright red plumage is often seen as a symbol of vitality, courage, and cheer, qualities that resonate with the spirit of the Commonwealth. It's worth noting that the Northern Cardinal is a popular state bird, also representing Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia.
The Northern Cardinal, Virginia's state bird, is a vibrant and beloved symbol of the Commonwealth's natural beauty. Its striking appearance, its distinctive song, and its year-round presence make it a familiar and welcome sight throughout Virginia. More than just a pretty bird, the cardinal represents the state's enduring connection to nature and its appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the avian world.