Scientific Name:
Gubernatrix cristata
Distribution
N & C Argentina, extreme SE Brazil, Uruguay.
Diet:
Mainly seedeater, also possibly small arthropods (like bugs, caterpillars, moths and spiders).
Facts
Habitat: Thorny woodland.
Incubation: ~14 days / 2-3 eggs
Social structure: Pairs or small family groups
Weight: 51g
Dimensions: 20cm
Lifespan: 8-9
Threats: Constant and chronic exploitation as a songbird for the cage bird market, timber extraction for firewood and furniture, rapid afforestation with Eucalyptus plantations, conversion to cattle pasture.
IUCN Status: Endangered
Did you know that:
- The yellow cardinal’s colourful plumage and sweet song have made it hugely popular in the cage bird trade.
- The males are very territorial and aggressive toward other males, and chase intruders away. This particular behaviour is taken advantage of by trappers, as they will place a caged yellow cardinal in another’s territory to draw it toward the intruder.