Are you eager to learn how to draw a cardinal? This simple step-by-step lesson is perfect for beginners, especially young students who want to improve their drawing skills. In this tutorial, you’ll find all the necessary instructions to make drawing a cardinal fun and easy.
Materials
To get started, gather the following materials:
- Pencil
- Drawing Paper
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Black Marker (optional)
- Printable PDF for reference (see bottom of the lesson)
Download the How to Draw a Cardinal PDF
For a printable version of this tutorial, click the link above. The PDF includes step-by-step instructions and a coloring page with outlines for additional creativity.
Meet the Caring Red Birds
Cardinals are known for their vibrant colors and unique songs. The male cardinal has a bright red body with a black mask-like face, while the female is a duller shade of red or gray-brown with lighter wings and tail feathers. These birds can be found abundantly in North America and are easily identified by their red feathers and distinctive crest on their heads.
Cardinals are ground feeders and enjoy a diet of insects, seeds, and berries. Interestingly, they also share food with their mates, showcasing their caring nature. Cardinals can be observed in various habitats, including woods, suburban gardens, and hedgerows. If you’re an early riser, you might catch a glimpse of cardinals perched on treetops, basking in the first rays of morning sunlight while serenading the new day.
What are Cardinal Birds?
The cardinal, a bright red bird found across North and South America, is a fascinating species. Male cardinals display a vibrant red shade and have a crest on their heads, while females have pale brown feathers with hints of red. These birds are territorial and can become agitated when anything or anyone approaches their nests. They even mistake their own reflections in shiny cars for intruders.
Originally found mainly in the southeastern United States, cardinals have expanded their habitat and are now abundant throughout the United States, parts of Canada, and even as far south as Mexico.
The Daily Life of Cardinal Birds
Cardinals have a diverse diet that includes seeds, fruits, and insects. They have been known to consume over a hundred different types of fruits and nuts, including sunflower seeds, blueberries, and grapes. The mating habits of cardinals are intriguing. During courtship, males present small fruits and seeds to females, who choose their mates based on the male’s courting behavior, singing, and coloring.
Cardinals build nests using twigs, leaves, and stems, often hidden from predators. These nests can be found along forest edges, in bushes, and even in residential areas. Cardinals exhibit monogamous behavior, although occasional mating with other individuals has been observed.
Cool Cardinal Bird Facts!
Did you know that a rare genetic mutation can cause a cardinal’s feathers to turn yellow? Currently, there are only around 2,000 yellow cardinals known to exist.
In the popular video game “Angry Birds,” the most famous character is modeled after a cardinal, reflecting its short-tempered nature just like its real-life counterpart.
The name “cardinal” is derived from the bright red clothing and tall hats worn by Catholic bishops.
Now that you’ve learned more about cardinal birds and their fascinating characteristics, it’s time to unleash your creativity and draw your very own cardinal using the step-by-step tutorial provided. Enjoy the process and have fun capturing the beauty of this incredible species!
