The Northern Cardinal is one of North America’s most recognizable and popular backyard birds. Its bright red color and distinctive crest make it easy to spot, and it’s often one of the first birds beginners learn to identify. While researching the birds I photograph at Rockefeller State Park Preserve, I looked into this one since many live there year-round. This bird is my favorite to photograph because of its color and personality. The crest and eyes vary depending on the situation; sometimes, they look like the bird is saying something.
Here’s some information I obtained about northern cardinals. Since this is a common bird at Rockefeller State Park Preserve and throughout the northeast, the information is likely known by many people, but I included it for those new to birding or bird photography.
You can find pictures of this bird here.
What does it look like?
- Male: Bright red body with a black face around the bill
- Female: Pale brown with red highlights and a black face
- Both sexes have a distinctive crest and orange-red beak
- Medium-sized songbird, about 8–9 inches long
Where and when can I find it?
- Found year-round in the eastern and central U.S.
- Common in wooded areas, suburbs, and backyards
- Often seen near feeders or in dense shrubs
- Most active and visible in early morning and late afternoon
What does it sound like?
- Repeats clear, whistled phrases like “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdy-birdy-birdy”
- Both males and females sing
- Vocal year-round, especially in spring
What behaviors should I watch for?
- Often seen perched high while singing
- Feeds on seeds, fruit, and insects
- Males may feed females during courtship
- Flies in short bursts between bushes
How do I photograph or observe it?
- Use feeders with sunflower seeds to attract them
- Look for perching males in the open during spring
- Stay low and quiet—cardinals can be wary
- Early morning light brings out their red color best
When you are at Rockefeller State Park Preserve, particularly in late fall through early spring, Northern Cardinals are easier to spot since there are no leaves to obstruct your view. In late spring through early fall, I’ve found that you can see them singing in the early morning on exposed branches in the sunshine.
Some trails at Rockefeller State Park Preserve where I’ve photographed many northern cardinals, include:
- Overlook Trail near the intersection of the Ash Tree Loop
- The Ash Tree Loop between the Overlook Trail and the Farm Meadow Trail
- The Farm Meadow Trail near Swan Lake / Brother’s Path
- The Farm Meadow Trail near the Maple Loop
Good luck finding the Northern Cardinals at Rockefeller State Park Preserve!