They are found as far south as Honduras and have become common in Hawaii since their introduction in 1929. They are a hardy species and can adapt to such diverse habitats as forests, prairies, deserts and city gardens. In Kane County, cardinals are often seen at and beneath backyard birdfeeders. They rarely migrate and usually spend their lives within a few miles of their birth site. Male Northern Cardinals are easily identified by their bright red plumage and black masks and bibs.
Females are duller and more brownish with a shorter tail.
Both have pointed crests which can be raised and lowered at will. Cardinals eat a varied diet consisting of fruit, insects, seeds and spiders. Their wedge shaped beaks have sharp edges which allow them to easily crack open large seeds. They are especially fond of sunflower seeds and cracked corn which can be found in commercial feed mix. Both male and female cardinals are known for their singing abilities.