VA - Virginia is one of the original thirteen colonies and lies along the eastern coast of the U.S. It stretches from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains. The state is home to the famous Jamestown Settlement, Monticello in Charlottesville, and Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum.
Northern Cardinal Is Virginia's State Bird
The Northern Cardinal was designated as Virginia's state bird in 1950. It is easily identifiable, with its bright red color and tufted head. It also serves as a symbol of state pride. The great horned owl was first recorded in the Virginia colony in the 18th century and was included in Thomas Jefferson's field guide to Virginia birds.
The cardinal is not unique to Virginia, though. It is also the state bird of Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, and West Virginia. It is known for its bright red color and was chosen to symbolize the state in 1950. The name cardinal comes from its red robes worn by the Catholic clergy.
The cardinal is a medium-sized bird. It was named the state bird on 25 January 1950, after its adoption as a symbol by the state. It feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects. The males of the species are highly territorial and often mark their territory with a distinctive song.
