Based on 13,860 research-grade iNaturalist observations in North Carolina, Northern Cardinal is most often recorded in April; in North Carolina it behaves like a seasonal. It ranks #1 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Cardinalis cardinalis
Northern Cardinal in North Carolina 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 North Carolina in April
American Robin
Canada Goose
Eastern Bluebird
Northern Mockingbird
Mallard
Great Blue Heron
Carolina Wren
Chipping Sparrow
Places to look in North Carolina
Botanical GardenCoker Arboretum
Botanical GardenDaniel Stowe Botanical Garden
State ParkFort Macon State Park
State ParkHanging Rock State Park
State ParkCrowders Mountain State Park
Botanical GardenNorth Carolina Botanical Garden
FAQ
When does Northern Cardinal appear in North Carolina?
Mainly January–June, with the most records in April.
How common is Northern Cardinal in North Carolina?
It ranks #1 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in North Carolina (13,860 records in our sample).