- Country:Canada
- Collection:BaseMetal Commemorative 25cents
- Metal:Base Metal
- Year:2008
- Denomination:25 Cents
- Finish:Complete
- Mintage:11604
- Product type:Coin
Beautiful crimson song
The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the
most brilliantly coloured songbirds in southeastern
Canada, where it is a familiar sight throughout the year.
The bright red male stands out against white snow and
green trees. This medium-sized songbird isn't shy and
the Cardinal can often be seen chasing other birds away
from feeders, even spending hours pecking at its own
reflection to expel an imaginary intruder from its
breeding territory.
Females resemble the males, but lack the vivid red
colouring. They are mostly grayishÃbrown with a
reddish tint in their wings and tail feathers. Both have
prominent crests and dark face-masks surrounding the
strong coral-coloured beak, which is used to break open
seeds and fruits.
Named after the red robes worn by Cardinals in the
Roman Catholic Church, the Northern Cardinal was
once a popular cage bird for its attractive plumage and
range of calls, songs and whistles. The male often calls
attention to himself with the cheerful birdie, birdie, birdie
call. However, the female has a longer, more complex
repertoire, sometimes singing from the nest to inform
her mate when food is needed.
Face Value: 25 cents
Mintage: 25,000
Composition: Nickel plated steel
Weight (g): 12.61
Diameter (mm): 35
Edge: Plain
Finish: Specimen
Artist: Arnold Nogy
Certificate: Serialized
