Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis

Residency: Native to the Sonoran Desert. Non-migratory.

Diet: Feeds upon seeds, berries and insects.

Predators: Domestic cats, domestic dogs, Cooper?s Hawk, Logger-head Shrikes, Northern Shrikes.

Nesting: Nest is shaped as a cup, and consists of twigs and stems. The interior of the nest is lined with hair and grass, where three to four eggs may be found. Nests are typically located in shrubs, mesquite trees, or desert mistletoe.  And are five to ten feet off the ground. Cardinal eggs may vary in color, and while they are typically pale green with dark spots, in Arizona the eggs may have light spotting.

Nesting Records: Brown's Ranch, Coon Bluff.

Notes: Because the Northern Cardinal eats large amounts of seeds and fruits, it is widely thought that this species may act the ecological role of ?seed disperser? for some plants, even influencing the plant community?s composition. The population numbers of the Cardinal have increased since its introduction to the United States in the 1800?s, owing in part to the increased number of backyard bird feeders used by people. Depending on the type of seed/feed used in these feeders, increases in the number/volume of non-native plant species through seed dispersal may be occurring in natural habitats.

Photo: Photo at right was taken at Brown's Ranch on July 15, 2006. For more photos click on camera icon.

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