West · Pacific Flyway

Northern Cardinal in Idaho

Cardinalis cardinalisCardinalidae

UncommonAbundance
Year-round residentSeasonal status
4Active months

About Northern Cardinal in Idaho

Northern Cardinals are familiar, non-migratory songbirds that favor dense shrubs and low woodland edges. A sturdy feeder, fresh seed, berry-producing plants, water, and protective cover make a yard more useful to them.

In Idaho, this species is classified as uncommon. It is a year-round resident, present in all 12 months. The best months to observe this bird are April, May, September, October.

Monthly Activity — Northern Cardinal in Idaho

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

Colorscrimson red, warm brown, black
Size21–23.5 cm
Habitatwoodland edge, thicket, garden
FamilyCardinalidae

Best Time to See Northern Cardinal in Idaho

January
Low
February
Low
March
Active
April
Active
May
Active
June
Active
July
Low
August
Low
September
Active
October
Active
November
Active
December
Low

Other birds in Idaho

Birds you might also encounter in Idaho.

Northern Cardinal in other states

Northern Cardinal in Idaho: Quick Facts

The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is an uncommon bird in Idaho. It is classified as a year-round resident in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include woodland edge, thicket, garden. The best months to spot this species in Idaho are April, May, September, October. For birders in Boise and throughout Idaho, knowing the seasonal patterns of Northern Cardinal can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

year-round across much of eastern and central United States. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Idaho using the related birds section.