Discover the Official State Bird of Kentucky

The official state bird of Kentucky is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis).

Kentucky declared the “native redbird, commonly known as the Kentucky cardinal,” its official state bird twice — first in 1926, then again in 1942. Also known colloquially as the cardinal, common cardinal, and red cardinal, the species was named for the male’s brilliant red plumage, which brought to mind the distinctive red robes and caps worn by the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church. A total of seven states have named it as their state bird — more than any other species! Read on to learn more about this iconic bird and what makes it so popular in Kentucky and beyond.

What Do Northern Cardinals Look and Sound Like?

Northern cardinals are medium-sized songbirds with a prominent head crest. The average body length measures 8.3 – 9.1 in (21 – 23 cm), with a wingspan of 9.8 – 12.2 in (25 – 31 cm). The average weight is 1.5 – 1.7 oz (42 – 48 g).

Males and females are similar in size and shape, but dramatically different in color. The adult males are famous for the all-over bright red plumage, accessorized with an orange-red bill and black face mask. Females, in contrast, exhibit less conspicuous coloration. They have a pale brown body color tinged with warm reddish highlights on the wings, tail, and crest. Like the males, they also have a black face mask and orange-red bill. Juveniles, meanwhile, look similar to adult females, but with a grayish bill.

Unusual for songbirds, both male and female northern cardinals sing. They even sing duets together! They chirp bright cheerful strings of clear whistles in 2-3 second repetitions. These phrases are often described as sounding like cheer, cheer, cheer, and birdie, birdie, birdie. In addition, you’ll commonly hear their distinctive alarm call, which sounds like a sharp metallic chip. Northern cardinals are very territorial and use this call often!

Where Do Northern Cardinals Live?

As is fitting for the official state bird, northern cardinals range throughout Kentucky. Cardinals can utilize a variety of habitats that include areas of dense shrubby areas such as forest edges, overgrown fields, and marshy thickets. They have also adapted well to human-created habitats, including woodlots, hedgerows, gardens, and parks. In fact, they are now one of the most commonly spotted “backyard birds” in towns and suburbs across their range. Furthermore, as a non-migratory species, it has a year-round presence that brightens up even the drabbest winter days. This is surely a big reason for its popularity as a state bird!

When Is The Northern Cardinal’s Breeding Season in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, the northern cardinal breeding season lasts all the way from early spring into early autumn, with multiple broods raised in a single season. Cardinals form strong pair bonds, with extended courtship and mating rituals that include the male feeding the female beak-to-beak.

The females typically start building cup nests in late March or early April. They prefer nesting in low, dense foliage, such as shrub and vine tangles. Females lay 2-5 speckled eggs, which they incubate for 11-13 days. Both males and females then raise the young together.

What Do Northern Cardinals Eat?

Northern cardinals are seed eaters and are especially fond of sunflower and safflower seeds. They also eat berries and other small fruits. Additionally, they supplement their diet with small arthropods; this is also what they feed their young. If you want to attract these vibrant birds to your yard, try offering their favorite seeds in feeders designed for larger songbirds such as hoppers, trays, and platforms, as well as an overall bird-friendly habitat.

Conclusion

The northern cardinal has been the official state bird of Kentucky since 1926, a choice the state reaffirmed in 1942. Six other states also claim it as a state symbol, making it the most popular state bird in the United States. A widespread species common across the state, it is easily identified by its cheerful song, perky head crest, and of course, the male’s iconic bright red plumage!

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