West Virginia wildlife
Northern Cardinal (male)
Cardinalis cardinalis
Males are vibrant red; females are brown with red highlights
See the Northern Cardinal (male) up close
Best months
Mar · Apr · May
Best viewed at dawn or dusk in spring; check local park reports for active nesting areas
Where to look
Babcock State ParkNew River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Conservation status
State bird of West Virginia, common year-round resident
Good to know
What do male cardinals eat?
Seeds, fruits, and insects.
Is the cardinal the state bird of West Virginia?
Yes, it has been since 1949.
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