DESCRIPTION:
L=8.75" (22cm). Sexes different. Both sexes have a crest and reddish
(in adults), conical bill (pyrrhuloxia have a yellowish, conical bill).
Male is mostly red with a black face; female is brownish, with hints of
red appearing in crest, wings, and tail. Song (sung by both sexes) consists
of loud, clear notes -- "cue cue cue" or "cheer cheer cheer"
or "purty purty purty."
NATURAL HISTORY: The large, cone-shaped bill of the northern cardinal
help it crack the seeds and berries that, with insects, make up its diet.
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