Bird Magic: Wisdom of the Ancient Goddess for Pagans & Wiccans - Sandra Kynes 2016

Cardinal: Northern Cardinal
The Profiles

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

At one time, the cardinal was thought to be a cousin of the red crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) because of the shape of its beak. Later, when it was determined that the two species were not closely related, the scientific name was changed to Cardinalis virginianus with the common name Virginia cardinal. After several other changes, it was finally named Cardinalis cardinalis with the common name northern cardinal because it is the only cardinal in the Northern Hemisphere. The species name Cardinalis was chosen because its plumage was reminiscent of the bright red color of Catholic cardinal robes. Considered precious because the dye was very expensive, red was a color of power and affluence.

Unique to North America, the cardinal was unfamiliar to early European settlers who simply called it the red bird. Also fascinated with their songs, people often caught them to keep as pets. In folklore, a cardinal seen flying upward meant good luck, while a downward-flying one meant the opposite.

The cardinal is one of only a few North American songbirds where the female also sings. While mated pairs usually share song phrases, the female tends to have a slightly more complex melody. Male cardinals often defend their territories through the use of song. Like many birds, the cardinal’s singing ends at the conclusion of the breeding season, but in late December, this brilliant bird resumes its song. In addition to their melodies, cardinals have an unmistakable metallic “chip” note.

With its bright plumage, this bird stands out against the mostly dull winter landscape. It is no wonder that the cardinal is a popular symbol of winter and the Yuletide season. In addition, the color red associates it with holly berries and the Goddess’s life-giving blood.

Magical Workings

Like red ochre, a cardinal’s color associates it with the energy of renewal and regeneration. Symbolizing the blood of the Mother Goddess, this bird brings the promise of fertility and the continuance of life. Use a picture or a figurine of cardinal on your Yule altar to draw the energy of the Goddess into your ritual. This bird symbolizes the vitality of life and the importance of nurturing family and friends. Include cardinal in magic work relating to family and pregnancy.

Although its color seems a stark contrast to winter, cardinal aids us in finding balance and well-being during a time of year that is filled with joy, yet sometimes fraught with emotional challenges. Long nights and cold weather are conducive to turning inward and cardinal can aid us in seeking knowledge and clarity by listening for that inner voice. With this bird’s aid we can fine-tune intuition and stoke creative juices while building confidence and self-worth.

Of course, we can’t ignore the fact that cardinal’s red plumage is associated with love and passion. Include an image of this bird when working spells of romance.

Make Connection

To connect with cardinal’s energy, clear everything from your altar except one red candle. If you have a picture or a figurine of a cardinal, place it on your altar, too. Sit in a darkened room with only the candle lit. Gaze at the color and then imagine that you are red like the bird. Amidst the darkness, visualize yourself becoming a glowing red beacon. When you open your eyes, don’t be surprised if the whole room seems to have a reddish glow. This is a sign that cardinal is present. Listen for a soft “chip” note to confirm this.

Associations

Element(s): Air, fire

Sabbat(s): Yule

Trees: Dogwood, hawthorn, maple, pine

Shrubs: Blackberry, rose

Bird Identification

Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

Also known as: Virginia cardinal, Virginia nightingale, cardinal grosbeak

Size: 8 to 9 inches

Wingspan: 9 to 12 inches

Comparative size: Robin

Description: Short, thick bill; long tail; prominent crest; black face around bill

Male: Brilliant red all over; reddish bill

Female: Pale brown; reddish tinge on wings, tail, and crest; red-orange bill

Range: From southern Canada and New England across the eastern United States to the Gulf Coast, through the plains states to Arizona and into Mexico

Habitat: Brushy areas, backyards, parks, woodlots, and shrubby forest edges

Eggs: Grayish white, buff white, or greenish white with pale gray to brown speckles

Collective noun(s): A college, a conclave, a deck, or a radiance of cardinals