Cardinals don’t just dazzle with red feathers—they speak volumes with their songs. Every call, from sharp alarms to melodic serenades, carries purpose and meaning. These sounds tell secrets about their survival and connection to the world.
Here are seven surprising ways cardinals communicate, each with its own story to tell.
1. The Classic Cardinal Song
The most iconic sound cardinals make is their melodic, whistling song, often described as “cheer, cheer, cheer” or “birdie, birdie, birdie.” Males and females both sing, but males are more vocal during mating season. This song is used primarily to establish territory and attract mates, showcasing the bird’s strength and vitality.
2. Alarm Calls to Signal Danger
When cardinals sense a threat, they emit sharp, metallic “chip” or “tik” sounds. These calls alert nearby cardinals and other birds of potential danger, such as predators or intruding animals. If you hear this sound, it’s a sign that the cardinal is on high alert.
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3. Contact Calls for Communication
Cardinals use quieter “chip” sounds to stay in touch with their mates and young. These calls help them maintain connection, especially when foraging or nesting. You might notice a steady rhythm to these calls, almost like a subtle conversation between the birds.
4. Songs to Strengthen Pair Bonds
Unlike many bird species, female cardinals also sing. Their songs are often heard during nesting season and are thought to strengthen bonds with their mates. Females may sing while sitting on the nest, signaling to their partner or coordinating food delivery.
5. Juvenile Begging Calls
Young cardinals, or fledglings, have their own distinctive calls, often described as soft, high-pitched chirps. These calls are used to beg for food and alert their parents to their needs. You’re most likely to hear these sounds in late spring or summer when fledglings are learning to fly and forage.
6. Regional Song Variations
Interestingly, cardinal songs can vary by region. Cardinals in different areas develop subtle dialects, much like human accents. This variation helps distinguish local populations and may play a role in mate selection.
7. Mimicry in Cardinal Calls
Though not as skilled as some other bird species, cardinals occasionally mimic sounds from their environment. This behavior can confuse predators or help cardinals adapt to their surroundings.
Tips for Identifying Cardinal Calls in the Wild
- Listen for Repetition: Cardinal songs are often repeated in patterns. A consistent “cheer, cheer, cheer” or similar melody is a clear giveaway.
- Time of Day: Cardinals are most vocal during the early morning and late afternoon. This is the best time to listen for their calls.
- Look for Movement: Combine sound with sight. Spotting the bird in a tree or shrub can confirm the call’s source.
- Use Technology: Apps like Merlin Bird ID or Audubon can help you identify and learn cardinal calls by recording and matching the sounds.
Cardinals are more than just a burst of red in your backyard; they’re also skilled communicators with a rich vocal repertoire. By paying attention to their calls, you can gain insight into their behaviors and enhance your connection to the natural world.
So next time you hear a “cheer, cheer, cheer,” take a moment to listen and appreciate the story they’re telling.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.