Red-crested Cardinal

This lovely red-headed bird kept turning up during a vacation in Hawaii.

Red-crested Cardinal

Despite its common name, it is not closely related to the true cardinal family.

Red-crested Cardinal

The Latin name is Paroaria coronata. Paroaria is what indigenous people in Brazil called it. Paroaria means “small red, white and gray bird”. Coronata means “crowned”. They are generally in pairs or small groups.

Red-crested Cardinals

It is found mainly in northern South America but has been introduced into Puerto Rico and Hawaii.

Red-crested Cardinal

Its natural habitat is dry shrubland.

Red-crested Cardinal

Red-crested Cardinals often occur close to rivers, marshes and lakes. These photos were taken near a lake.

Red-crested Cardinal

The red crest is usually shown only when the birds are a bit excited.

Red-crested Cardinal

The species feeds mainly on seeds,

Red-crested Cardinal

fruits,

Red-crested Cardinals

and insects.

Red-crested Cardinal

They also enjoy bread thrown to them.

Red-crested Cardinal
Cardinal with Feral Chicken chick.

Miles Hearn

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *