Discover the Most Common Places Cardinals Go at Night

Where do cardinals go at night? If you’ve ever watched these smart little birds throughout the day, you may have wondered where they go once the sun sets. After all, it’s rare, if ever, that you see them flying around at night. If you’ve asked this question before, or you’re wondering about the answer now, continue reading below to see the places cardinals go at night, as well as how they choose a spot!

Species Profile: Cardinal

Before learning about the places cardinals go at night, it is important to learn a little bit about this species. The term “cardinal” actually refers to the genus Cardinalis, which contains three different species of cardinal. These species are the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), the pyrrhuloxia or desert cardinal (Cardinalis sinuatus), and the vermillion cardinal (Cardinalis phoeniceus). Typically, however, when someone says “cardinal,” they are referring to the nominate species, the northern cardinal. 

The northern cardinal is a medium-sized songbird found throughout North America. It is known best for the male’s bright red plumage, crest, and black markings. Females sport similar crests and markings but are brown in color instead. This species can grow to be up to 9.3 inches in length, with a wingspan of 9.8 to 12.2 inches. It is common in woodlands, gardens, and similar areas.

These cardinals often forage for food on the ground, and, with their bright red feathers, they can be an easy target for predators. Some of the predators of the northern cardinal include domesticated cats, birds of prey, and snakes. Some small mammals, such as squirrels, are even capable of killing these songbirds. Because of this, it is important that northern cardinals seek safe habitats, especially at night.

Where Do Cardinals Go at Night?

Cardinals are not a nocturnal species. Because of this, they are active throughout the day, and they will spend much of their nights asleep. However, there are other nocturnal animals, including those that prey on cardinals, such as owls. As a result, it is important that northern cardinals and other related species not only find places to rest at night for the next day but that they find safe resting spots in order to make it to the next day!

When it comes time to roost at night, cardinals will typically choose a tall area rich with dense foliage. This can include trees, shrubs, and cavities within trees. What is important is that each location provides shelter from the elements and helps hide the cardinal from any potential predators. 

Their location also needs to provide the ability for them to make a quick escape. Areas that are completely enclosed except for a single, small exit can make this difficult. As a result, cardinals will tend to stray away from these spots in favor of someone better suited to their needs. 

Do Cardinals Sleep in the Same Places Every Night?

Believe it or not, but some cardinals do sleep in the same place every single night! While some individuals may choose to sleep in a variety of previously chosen locations they’ve deemed safe, others will return to the same place nightly. 

However, this can change. Since safety is the top priority at all times, if the cardinals experience anything that makes them think their chosen spot is no longer safe, they may flee from it. 

Cardinals may also choose temporarily different spots. If a large storm brings in precipitation, be it rain or snow, they may seek somewhere with better protection than their current spot. After all, while a dense shrub may help hide them from predators, it may do little in the instance of rain. Typically, however, once the poor weather has passed for good, the cardinal will return to its previous spot as long as the bird continues to think it is safe. 

Do Cardinals Sleep in Nests?

During the majority of the year, cardinals do not like sleeping in confined areas. This is why they aren’t common in man-made birdhouses or nest boxes. However, during the child-rearing season, this is a completely different situation.

Both as eggs and as chicks, female cardinals will sleep in the nest with their young. This is because, during this time, the cardinal is more focused on the survival and safety of its young. By sleeping in the nest, she will be able to care for and protect her offspring. However, sleeping in the nest also has other benefits for the young cardinals as well. Namely, the mother will be able to provide them with warmth. Since cardinals emerge from their nests with little to no feathers for warmth, this is essential.