The yellow-billed cardinal is a bird species in the tanager family (Thraupidae). It is not very closely related to the cardinals proper (Cardinalidae).
Region
Central South America; introduced in the Hawaiian Islands
Typical Environment
Native populations occur in the Pantanal and adjacent regions of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. It frequents riparian woodlands, gallery forests, shrubby savannas, and forest edges, especially near rivers, marshes, and ponds. In human-modified landscapes it uses parks, gardens, and agricultural margins. Introduced populations are established on Hawaiʻi Island, where they occupy coastal scrub, resort grounds, and open woodland with water nearby.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Despite its name, the yellow-billed cardinal is a tanager (family Thraupidae), not a true cardinal. It is native to central South America and has been introduced to Hawaiʻi, where it is locally common. It favors watery edges and open woodlands and is often seen in small groups. Adults are easily recognized by their bright yellow bill and sharp contrast between a dark head and pale underparts.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs defend small territories during breeding. The cup-shaped nest is placed low in shrubs or small trees, often near water, and both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, whistled notes and short phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chips and metallic tik notes used to keep contact within groups.
Plumage
Clean, contrasting pattern with a glossy dark (blackish) head and throat, pale whitish underparts, and gray to olive-brown back and wings. Feathers are smooth and sleek without a crest. The bright bill stands out strongly against the dark head.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that takes insects, small arthropods, seeds, and berries. It gleans from foliage and twigs, picks items from the ground, and occasionally hawks short distances for flying insects. In introduced ranges it may visit outdoor areas and feeders for seeds or food scraps.
Preferred Environment
Forages along riverbanks, marsh edges, and open woodland borders where shrubs and low branches provide perches. In towns and resorts it feeds on lawns, hedges, and landscaped plantings near water.
