|Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)|
DESCRIPTION: L=8.75" (22cm). Sexes different. Both sexes have a crest and reddish (in adults), conical bill (pyrrhuloxia have a yellowish, conical bill). Male is mostly red with a black face; female is brownish, with hints of red appearing in crest, wings, and tail. Song (sung by both sexes) consists of loud, clear notes -- "cue cue cue" or "cheer cheer cheer" or "purty purty purty."
NATURAL HISTORY: The large, cone-shaped bill of the northern cardinal help it crack the seeds and berries that, with insects, make up its diet.