Based on 13,582 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Illinois, Northern Cardinal is most often recorded in April; in Illinois it behaves like a seasonal. It ranks #5 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Cardinalis cardinalis
Northern Cardinal in Illinois by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Illinois in April
American Robin
Canada Goose
Red-winged Blackbird
Mallard
House Sparrow
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Mourning Dove
Places to look in Illinois
State ParkCahokia
Botanical GardenMorton Arboretum
National ForestShawnee National Forest
Botanical GardenChicago Botanic Garden
Botanical GardenLadd Arboretum
State ParkStarved Rock State Park
FAQ
When does Northern Cardinal appear in Illinois?
Mainly December–September, with the most records in April.
How common is Northern Cardinal in Illinois?
It ranks #5 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in Illinois (13,582 records in our sample).