The Northern Cardinal is the state bird of seven US states - more than any other bird species. Its year-round presence, bright red plumage, and recognisable song made it a natural choice.
The Seven States
| State | Year adopted | Other state bird contenders |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 1929 | First state to choose the cardinal |
| Indiana | 1933 | Previously had no official state bird |
| Ohio | 1933 | Chosen by the Ohio General Assembly |
| Kentucky | 1926 | Chosen by the state legislature |
| North Carolina | 1943 | Chosen by the General Assembly |
| West Virginia | 1949 | Chosen by the state legislature |
| Virginia | 1950 | Chosen by the General Assembly |
Why So Many States Chose the Cardinal
Year-round resident - Unlike many songbirds that migrate, cardinals stay put all year. Every state that chose the cardinal can see one in any season.
Instantly recognisable - The male’s bright red plumage stands out against snow, bare branches, and green foliage. It is one of the most recognisable birds in North America.
Beautiful song - Cardinals sing a loud, clear whistle that carries across backyards and parks. Both males and females sing, which is unusual among songbirds.
Wide range - Cardinals live across the entire eastern US, parts of the Southwest, and into Mexico. All seven states fall within their natural range.
Non-game bird - Cardinals were never widely hunted, making them a unifying choice without controversy.
Cardinal Fast Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Cardinalis cardinalis |
| Size | 21-24cm |
| Weight | 42-48g |
| Diet | Seeds, berries, insects |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years (wild average), up to 15 years recorded |
| Range | Eastern US, SW US, Mexico, Central America |
| Song | Loud, clear “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdy-birdy-birdy” |
| Mate for life | Yes - pairs typically stay together year after year |
Other Popular State Birds
| Bird | Number of states |
|---|---|
| Northern Cardinal | 7 states |
| Western Meadowlark | 6 states |
| Northern Mockingbird | 5 states |
| American Robin | 3 states |
| Eastern Bluebird | 2 states |
The Northern Cardinal holds the record by a comfortable margin. No other bird comes close to being claimed by seven states.
Kentucky was the first state to adopt the cardinal in 1926. Six more states followed over the next 24 years. Since Virginia adopted it in 1950, no additional states have chosen the cardinal - making it a mid-century phenomenon.
