The masked cardinal is a bird species in the tanager family (Thraupidae). It is not very closely related to the cardinals proper (Cardinalidae).
Region
Northern South America and Trinidad
Typical Environment
Found along lowland rivers, lagoons, and mangrove swamps from northern Venezuela into nearby regions, and on the island of Trinidad. Prefers riparian gallery forest, flooded woodlands, and scrub near slow-moving water. Often occurs at forest edges and in semi-open areas with scattered trees. It adapts to human-altered wetlands, including reservoirs and canals, provided cover and perches are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A tanager rather than a true cardinal, the masked cardinal is often confused with the red-capped cardinal. It can be told by its distinct black facial mask and white throat, whereas the red-capped cardinal shows a red throat. It frequents water edges and mangroves and is a familiar sight in Trinidad’s Caroni Swamp.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short undulating flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups along watercourses. Forms loose flocks outside the breeding season and may join mixed-species assemblages near fruiting trees. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in shrubs or small trees near water; both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, sweet whistles interspersed with sharp metallic chips. Calls include a brisk tik-tik and scolding chatter when alarmed.
Plumage
Striking contrast of a bright red crown and nape with a sharp black facial mask; glossy black upperparts and wings with clean white underparts.
Diet
Takes small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates gleaned from foliage and snatched from the water’s edge. Also eats fruits and seeds, especially from shrubs along rivers and mangroves. Will opportunistically visit fruiting trees and occasionally human-provided food near settlements.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in low vegetation, on exposed branches over water, and along muddy banks. Often forages methodically in pairs, making short sallies to catch insects and picking at berries in shrubby thickets.
