The Red-crested Cardinal is a striking and popular bird, well-known for its bold red head, throat, and crest contrasting with a white collar and gray body. It's often found near water.
Where to spot
Native to southern South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina). Introduced to some areas like Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Found in open woodlands, savannas, parks, and suburban areas, often near water.
How to spot
Look in open areas with scattered trees, especially near rivers, ponds, or marshes. They often forage on the ground. Listen for their cheerful, whistled song.
When to spot
Observable year-round in its native and introduced ranges. Most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
Where to spot
Native to southern South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina). Introduced to some areas like Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Found in open woodlands, savannas, parks, and suburban areas, often near water.
How to spot
Look in open areas with scattered trees, especially near rivers, ponds, or marshes. They often forage on the ground. Listen for their cheerful, whistled song.
When to spot
Observable year-round in its native and introduced ranges. Most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite its common name, the Red-crested Cardinal is not a true cardinal (family Cardinalidae) but belongs to the tanager family (Thraupidae), making it a fascinating case of convergent evolution in appearance.
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