Kentucky State Bird

Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), often referred to simply as the Cardinal, serves as the official state bird of Kentucky. Renowned for its striking appearance, the male Cardinal boasts brilliant crimson plumage and a distinctive crest, while the female sports a more subdued but equally elegant brownish-red coloration. These iconic birds are year-round residents of the state and are known for their melodious songs, which fill the Kentucky landscape with vibrant, cheerful notes. The Cardinal's presence not only graces Kentucky with its beauty but also symbolizes the vitality and enduring spirit of the state's natural world.