The cardinal is a commonly sighted wild bird in Illinois.
Illinois is not generally regarded for a vast array of wildlife, as it is primarily a plains state dense with flat fields. But birders can catch glances of a few vibrant birds in the Land of Lincoln. Most of Illinois' wild birds may be found in areas outside of Chicago.
Cardinals
The official state bird of Illinois is also one of the most majestic. The northern cardinal is a bright crimson bird with a crest on the top of its head and relatively long tail feathers. Cardinals received their name from the Roman Catholic Cardinals, who wear long red robes of the same color as the bird. Cardinals are often found at bird feeders, because one of their favorites meals is seed. They nest in bush areas throughout the entire wooded state of Illinois. Cardinals are approximately 8 inches in length.
Bluebirds
Though not unique to Illinois, Eastern Bluebirds are one of the most commonly seen birds throughout the state. They're usually seen in suburban areas with open space such as cemeteries, parks, large backyards or golf courses. They like to eat meal worms, and are seen in abundance during the spring months. One enjoyable mark of the Bluebird is its sweet, melodic song. Both male and female Bluebirds have a blue color, but the males have a much more vibrant hue.
Woodpeckers
The sound of knocking on wood can be heard throughout the forests of Illinois. Many different species of woodpecker live in the state, including red-headed, downy, hairy, pileated, red-bellied and yellow-bellied woodpeckers. Most woodpeckers are black and white; the males with red on the head. They are approximately 6 inches to a foot in length, except for the pileated woodpecker, which is about the size of a crow. Woodpeckers attach themselves upright against trees and peck for insects found within.
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