Northern Cardinal vs Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Cardinalis cardinalis compared with Pheucticus ludovicianus
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Northern Cardinal | Rose-breasted Grosbeak |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cardinalis cardinalis | Pheucticus ludovicianus |
| Order | Passeriformes | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae | Cardinalidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | 22.0 cm (8.7 in) | — |
| Wingspan | 30.0 cm (11.8 in) | 20.3 cm (8.0 in) |
| Weight | 44.0 g (1.55 oz) | 45.11666666666667 g (1.59 oz) |
| Diet | Seeds, grains, fruits, and insects. Especially fond of sunflower seeds at bird feeders. Feeds mainly … | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-5 | 1-5 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Size Comparison
Habitat Comparison
Northern Cardinal
Woodland edges, thickets, gardens, and suburban areas. Prefers dense shrubby habitats for nesting.
Song & Call Comparison
Northern Cardinal
Loud, clear whistled phrases: 'cheer-cheer-cheer' and 'birdy-birdy-birdy'. Both male and female sing; female song is softer. Alarm is a sharp metallic 'chink'.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Geographic Range & Migration
Northern Cardinal
Eastern and central North America from southern Canada to Mexico and Guatemala. Expanding range northward.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Conservation Status
Northern Cardinal
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
How to Tell Them Apart
Northern Cardinal
Males are brilliant crimson red overall with a black face mask. Females are warm buffy brown with reddish tinges on wings, crest, and tail.
Thick, conical, bright orange-red bill
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
About These Birds
Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal is the state bird of seven US states, more than any other species. Unlike many songbirds, both males and females sing, often in duets. Cardinals do not migrate and their brilliant red plumage against winter snow makes them a favorite among backyard birdwatchers.