Red-crested Cardinal

Subspecies:
Paroaria coronata coronata: (J. F. Miller, 1776), No other subspecies.

Description: 17 cm. Adults have a striking red crest and cap that extends down to the chest, dull grayish back, white ventral side, and a whitish bill. Juveniles are similar to adults but have less red, and depending on age, the red can be replaced by a cinnamon tone in younger individuals. It takes about a year for them to acquire adult plumage. This bird is often kept and is common in captivity.

Sexual Dimorphism: None, although some authors note a slight difference in coloration, which is almost impossible to appreciate in the field and may vary with the age of the individual.

Habitat: Dry forests, savannas, woods, parks, and gardens near human settlements.

Geographic Distribution: Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Argentina. It was introduced to the Hawaiian Islands.

Behavior: Confident, often seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes with other species such as Blackbirds (Molothrus sp.), feeding along road shoulders. It has a melodious voice.

Nesting: Builds a semi-spherical nest made of sticks at the ends of horizontal tree branches, which is lined with straw and hairs. It lays three greenish eggs with dark speckles, and the incubation lasts about 14 days.

Feeding: Eats seeds, fruits, and insects.

Compiler of this description: Diego Oscar