The next bird of West Virginia’s over 350 species is the northern cardinal. These birds can be found in areas where there is a human population. They build their nests in tangled areas with vines or thicker brush. Here are some facts about the state bird of WV, the cardinal.
Identification
Males and females both have shorter and thicker beaks and both are crested. The males especially are well-known for their bright red coloring and both sexes are larger.
Coloring
Males
Bright red on the back with a black mask down to the throat
Females
Pale brown with a red tint to the wings and tail
To attract Cardinals
When you’re wanting to attract cardinals to your yard, seeds are great to add to your feeders. Cardinals are already common bird feeder birds, but they also love splashing around in a bird bath. Adding one or two baths to your feeders will help.
When choosing a feeder, look at the weight and size of the cardinal. They aren’t tiny birds and they will be turned off by lighter and smaller feeders that don’t give them much room to stand. Get a sturdier feeder with a larger platform so they can eat in comfort.
Average Size
Length: 8.3-9.1 in
Weight: 1.5-1.7 oz
Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 in
Other Facts
Cardinals don’t migrate, so if you can attract them to your yard, you’ll see them a lot but you also have to be in a place where they live.
They are the state bird of WV
Cardinals thrive in areas populated by humans
Sunflowers can help draw cardinals to your yard
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