This is an elegant bird, and a very agreeable songster; and when in full plumage, with his fine arched crest, and the glowing crimson of his head and neck, contrasted with the chaste coloring of the remainder of his plumage, has a very fine appearance. They are docile, and easily domesticated, and sing well in the cage. They are often brought here, and are named the South American Cardinal, to distinguish them from the Cardinal Grossbeak.

Food

A mixture of one-third hemp, and two-thirds Canary seed. They are very fond of ripe berries, which may be given them in summer, and a few black currants in winter; occasionally a bit of ripe apple. Gravel, and water to wash.

Characteristics Of The Sexes

This bird is about the size of the Cardinal Grossbeak. The male has the head and fore part of the neck a bright crimson color, on the head a long and full pointed crest; the back and wings are of a dark, ash color, the lower parts white, the two middle feathers of the tail are a dusky red, the others the color of the back. The female is duller and fainter in all the colors, and the back is speckled with white.

Location

Found in different parts of South America, especially in Brasil - Resident.