Photos by Ashleigh Newnes
Winter unfolds its own charm, and one aspect I truly enjoy during this season is bird watching. Even amid an ice storm, when everything else slows down, the resident birds persist in their hustle, actively foraging for sustenance. It’s an ideal time to set up bird feeders, extending a helping hand to our feathered friends navigating the challenges of the colder months. Among the familiar faces at my feeder during this season, the Northern Cardinal stands out, with its vibrant colors popping against the winter backdrop. Join me in the simple joy of observing these active and resilient creatures in our own backyards.
The cardinal holds a special place as one of North America’s most beloved and recognizable birds. Yet, male and female cardinals have very different appearances. The males showcase bright red feathers, while the females, though less flamboyant, exude beauty with their brown coloration tinged with subtle red hues.
Unlike some birds that migrate to warmer climates, Northern Cardinals are built to endure winter in Tennessee. Their resilience shines through as they not only tolerate the cold but thrive in it, bringing a burst of color to the otherwise wintry scenery with their fiery feathers.
Northern Cardinals believe in sticking together. There are monogamous birds that pair up for a year or longer, although some couples mate for life. During courtship, males demonstrate their strength by finding seeds for the females and feeding them one by one, resembling a courtship display akin to kissing. Throughout winter, these pairs often forage together and, come spring, they embark on building nests and raising their young.
Being granivorous, cardinals primarily consume seeds. Their short, cone-shaped beaks are adept at breaking open seed shells. Regular visitors to backyard bird feeders, cardinals indulge in seeds, berries and insects. Sunflower seeds are a particular favorite, and many folks strategically place feeders to attract these red visitors. It’s a common sight during winter—cardinals perched on snowy feeders.
Beyond their biological significance, cardinals hold symbolic importance in many cultures. Stories abound of cardinals representing loved ones who have passed, or acting as beacons of hope. Some view them, according to folklore, as messengers from the spiritual realm, bringing encouragement and reminders of departed loved ones.
While cardinals themselves are not currently facing threats, their habitats are at risk. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving wooded areas, maintaining diverse vegetation and mitigating the impacts of urbanization. Protecting the spaces where cardinals find food, build nests, and raise their young is crucial to ensuring their continued presence in Tennessee.
The Northern Cardinal isn’t merely a winter guest; it’s a practical, year-round resident adding a touch of charm to Tennessee’s natural landscape. As winter unfolds, take a moment to appreciate these red-feathered beauties.
