You Won’t Believe Tennessee’s Official State Bird – Nature’s Hidden Gem!

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:52:15 +0000

You Won’t Believe: Tennessee’s Official State Bird – Nature’s Hidden Gem Revealed! When many think of Tennessee, images of vibrant cities, rich music heritage, and rolling countryside come to mind. But few realize that nature’s hidden gem has a proud claim to fame: Tennessee’s official state bird is none other than the scenic and enchanting Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), a striking red bird that has captured the hearts of nature lovers across the Volunteer State. ### The Unexpected Choice: Why the Northern Cardinal? Officially designated in 1933, the Northern Cardinal was chosen not just for its bold beauty, but for its deep symbolic meaning and enduring presence across Tennessee’s forests, backyards, and suburban landscapes. While Tennessee doesn’t boast flashy songbirds from distant lands, the Northern Cardinal earns its title through its unmistakable presence—a bright splash of red, fierce plumage, and a song that resonates from dawn till dusk.