At The Feeders: Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

February 14th, 2014. The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is, by far, one of the showiest birds to come to the feeders. We see eight or nine pairs around the feeders each day. They are among the first to arrive in the early morning and the last to leave in the late afternoon. They feed on sunflower seeds. 

The male is the brightest.  
 

The female’s plumage is more muted, but quite beautiful. 

Cardinals are most comfortable feeding on the ground or on the platform feeder, but will also feed at the tube feeder. They can hull the seeds at the feeder.

 

Some cardinals have tried to feed at the log feeders… 

Most attempts are like this. They can’t gain purchase on the log so take a mouthful of food ‘to go.’

 

A few cardinals have mastered feeding at the logs even if they look a little awkward.  

Identification Resources: 

All About Birds 

- Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) 

Related post:  

- Photo Of The Day 

- Snow Day And Hungry Birds