Illinois State Bird: Northern Cardinal
Fact-checked • Updated November 18, 2025
Illinois State Bird – Northern Cardinal
Illinois adopted the Northern Cardinal as its official state bird on June 4, 1929, after a statewide vote the previous year. Students from ninety-six counties took part in the initiative. The cardinal received more than eight thousand votes above the Eastern Bluebird. Bright plumage and clear song help residents identify the species in every season.
Why Illinois Chose the Northern Cardinal as State Bird
Illinois designated the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) as its state bird in 1929. Schoolchildren picked the species during a 1928 statewide vote organized by local educators and conservation groups.
Ninety-six counties participated. Students reviewed illustrations and descriptions of native birds before casting ballots. Northern Cardinals won by more than 8,000 votes, defeating Eastern Bluebirds and other candidates.
Cardinals had spread across Illinois by the late 1800s. Year-round residents, they adapted to woodlands, wetlands, and residential areas. Non-migratory habits meant people saw them in every season.
Bright red males caught attention in all seasons. Snow made winter sightings especially striking. Female cardinals showed tan plumage with red wing and tail highlights.
Six other states share the Northern Cardinal as their official bird: Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. Illinois was the first to adopt the species in 1929.
History of Adoption: Legislation & Timeline
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1928 — Student Voting Begins
Conservation groups and teachers encouraged Illinois to join other states in adopting an official state bird. Schools organized a statewide vote to engage students in wildlife education.
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February–March 1928 — Statewide Ballots
Students from nearly every county participated. The Northern Cardinal won decisively over its closest competitor, the Eastern Bluebird.
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April 4, 1929 — Legislative Approval
After reviewing the student vote totals, the 56th Illinois General Assembly approved the designation of the Northern Cardinal as the state bird.
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June 4, 1929 — Law Takes Effect
Illinois officially recognized the Northern Cardinal as its state bird. This legislation remains in effect today.
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Wider Adoption in the U.S.
Six additional states later selected the Northern Cardinal: Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. This makes the cardinal one of America's most widely shared state symbols.
Symbolism & Cultural Meaning
Symbol of Hope and Vitality
Bright red plumage stands out during Illinois winters. Cardinals remain active even during cold months, making them symbols of resilience and warmth.
Presence in Local Culture
Cardinals appear in school mascots, community logos, local artwork, and nature photography across Illinois.
Folklore and Tradition
Midwestern folklore often links cardinals with remembrance and meaningful moments. Their bold appearance creates lasting impressions.
Connection to Daily Life
Cardinals frequently visit backyard feeders, public parks, and gardens. Their constant presence builds a strong connection between residents and the bird.
Physical Characteristics
Male Cardinals
Males display bright red plumage, a pointed crest, and a black facial mask.
Female Cardinals
Females are warm tan with red highlights on wings, tail, and crest.
Juvenile Cardinals
Juveniles resemble females but have dark bills. Young males gradually turn red after their first molt.
Behavior & Habits
Song & Calls
Both males and females sing clear whistles such as 'cheer-cheer-cheer' and 'birdie-birdie-birdie'.
Territorial Behavior
Males establish and defend territories vigorously, sometimes striking their own reflection in windows.
Feeding Habits
Cardinals eat seeds, fruits, berries, and insects. Their strong beaks easily crack open tough seeds.
Mating & Family Life
Cardinals form long-term pair bonds. Both partners help feed nestlings and defend their territory.
Habitat & Conservation
Preferred Habitat
Cardinals prefer woodland edges, suburban yards, thickets, and gardens throughout Illinois.
Conservation Status
The species is listed as Least Concern. Illinois populations remain stable or increasing.
How to Help Cardinals in Illinois
- Plant native shrubs and trees
- Provide feeders with sunflower seeds
- Maintain dense vegetation
- Avoid pesticides
- Keep cats indoors
Interesting Facts About Northern Cardinals
Fact 1 of 10
Cardinals do not migrate and remain in Illinois year-round
Northern Cardinal Songs & Calls
Hear the clear whistles and sharp calls of the Northern Cardinal. These field recordings capture their distinctive voice in natural habitat.
Audio licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Also the State Bird of:
Sources & References
This article has been researched using authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. All information has been fact-checked and verified against official government records and scientific databases.
Official educational resource on Illinois wildlife, including detailed species information. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Authoritative bird guide covering identification, habitat, and range. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
General overview covering taxonomy, range, and behavior. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
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