Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
These crested, long-tailed, stout-billed species have
similar habits and voice, but differ in color and bill shape. When comparing
with the Pyrrhuloxia (Cardinalis sinuatus). Both are found in brushy habitats
with open areas, often in small groups.
Large, triangular bill always red or orange on adults.
Voice: Song is a series of high, clear, sharp, mostly
slurred whistles woit woit woit chew chew
chew chew chew or pichew pichew tiw
tiw tiw tiw tiw tiw; many variations. Call is a high, hard tik; also a
softer, rising twik.
Southwest populations of Northern Cardinal (mainly Arizona)
have a larger bill with slightly decurved culmen and a longer and bushier crest
than Eastern. Southwest males are paler overall with less black on the face,
particularly across the forehead; females are more variable and more difficult
to distinguish.
Works Cited
Sibley, D. A. The Sibley Guide to Birds. New
York City: Chanticleer Press, Inc. (2000): 464.
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