I’m starting a new short series of watercolor bird “portraits.” This time it’s the northern cardinal, with a few other bird species coming soon.

The northern cardinal’s head has gotten pretty big over being named the official state bird of seven states, more than any other species. The northern cardinal is a year-round resident of NC’s “Research Triangle” area along with most of the eastern United States, eastern Mexico and parts of southeastern Canada.

Cardinals are named after the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church, with their bright red robes and hats.

My original watercolor portrait of a cardinal, who is not bothered by not being chosen to become pope, is 5×7” on Magnani 1404 Italia cold press paper.