Paroaria coronata
The Red-crested Cardinal (Paroaria coronata) is a striking passerine measuring approximately 19-20 cm (7.5-7.9 inches) in length and weighing 35-49 grams (1.2-1.7 oz). Its most distinctive feature is a brilliant scarlet crest, face, and throat, sharply contrasting with crisp white underparts and a grey back and wings. A prominent white collar separates the red head from the grey mantle, completing its elegant appearance. Although commonly called a "cardinal," it is not closely related to the ...
Primarily found in semi-open lowland habitats, including shrublands, savannas, agricultural areas, urban parks, and gardens, often near water sources. It thrives from sea level up to around 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) in elevation.
Omnivorous, feeding primarily on small seeds from various plants and insects, supplemented with fruits and nectar, typically foraging on the ground or in low vegetation.
Red-crested Cardinals are diurnal, generally active from dawn to dusk, and often gather in communal roosts in dense vegetation at night. They are primarily ground foragers, hopping actively to search for seeds and insects, but will also glean from low vegetation. While not fiercely territorial ou...
The native breeding range of the Red-crested Cardinal spans central South America, including northern Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and parts of southern Brazil. It is largely resident throughout this distribution, with some local movements but no extensive migrations. This species has a...
Least Concern
- Despite its common name, the Red-crested Cardinal is not a true cardinal (family Cardinalidae) but belongs to the tanager family (Thraupidae). - It is a highly successful introduced species, particularly well-established in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, where it thrives in human-modified environments...