What is illinois state bird?

The state bird of Illinois is the Northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). This bird is known for its brilliant red plumage, which is displayed by the males, while the females have a more subdued brownish-red coloration. The Northern cardinal is a common sight in Illinois, often seen in forests, woodlands, and residential areas.

The Northern cardinal is a year-round resident in Illinois, and can be found across the state throughout the year. It is a popular bird for birdwatchers and photographers due to its striking appearance and distinctive song. The female Northern cardinal is known for its melodious call, which is often described as sounding like "cheer, cheer, cheer" or "purdy, purdy, purdy."

In addition to being the state bird of Illinois, the Northern cardinal is also the state bird of six other states: Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. It was chosen as the state bird of Illinois in 1929 due to its prevalence in the state and its popularity among residents.