Cardinal (Red Capped)

This South American bird’s breeding takes place from June to September. The nest is a shallow cup, about 9-10 cm wide and 7 cm high and is built in a tree. It is built of thin twigs, and ferns. 2-3 eggs are laid.

The distinguishing features of the Red-capped Cardinal are the black bib below the red cap, the generally black bill with a pale base of the mandible, a partial white collar and a black smudge around the eye. Often mistaken for a Red crested Cardinal

Photo taken at Discovery Cove Aviary, Orlando FL.