In the picturesque landscapes of West Virginia, one bird stands out as a symbol of pride and beauty – the Northern Cardinal. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the fascinating history of the Northern Cardinal, West Virginia’s state bird. Prepare to be captivated by the tale of its discovery, the remarkable individuals behind it, and the unique characteristics that make it an integral part of West Virginia’s natural heritage.
A Colorful Emblem of West Virginia
The Northern Cardinal, scientifically known as Cardinalis cardinalis, is a medium-sized songbird renowned for its vibrant plumage. It graces the vast expanse of North America, from the icy realms of Alaska to the sultry landscapes of Mexico, spanning from the eastern edges of New York to the western reaches of Texas. However, before 1934, the presence of cardinals in West Virginia was nothing more than a rare occurrence, typically during winter when these striking birds were displaced by storms.
The Turning Point: The Discovery of Nesting Cardinals
In the early 1930s, the narrative surrounding Northern Cardinals in West Virginia began to shift dramatically. The catalyst for this transformation was the unwavering dedication of two remarkable West Virginians – Dr. William H. Evans and Mrs. Frances C. Evans, the proprietors of the historic Cheat Lake Inn in Morgantown, West Virginia, nestled beside the expansive Cheat River.
The pivotal moment occurred in 1930 when West Virginia’s first documented cardinal nest was discovered near Romney, within the Monongahela National Forest of Randolph County. This discovery marked the beginning of a wave of sightings that would change the course of the Northern Cardinal’s presence in the state.
Nesting Success and Expansion
The year 1931 saw another cardinal nest found in Marion County, near Fairmont along Sideling Creek. By 1932, two more nests had been reported in Tucker County, near Stover and Parsons, each containing two fledglings. Though these fledglings didn’t survive to leave their nests, their parents valiantly defended their territories.
The turning point came in 1934 when bird watchers in West Virginia celebrated the first documented nesting of Northern Cardinals in Tucker County, near Stover, with one nest producing two fully grown fledglings. This achievement marked a crucial milestone for the state’s ornithological history.
The Recognition and Official Records
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) became aware of these nesting attempts in 1936 when a Wildlife Conservation official noted, “A pair of cardinals nested on Parsons Mountain and raised two young.” Subsequent years witnessed even more confirmed sightings and successful nests in Tucker and Marion counties.
Official recognition followed in 1937, with Marion County documenting two successful nests, and in 1938, Randolph County recorded one successful nest. It is believed that these events heralded the first nesting of Northern Cardinals west of the Allegheny Front in 1939, near Glenville, West Virginia.
The Evans’ Contribution
Dr. William H. and Mrs. Frances C. Evans played a pivotal role in bringing this colorful songbird to West Virginia. Their tireless efforts included collaborating with West Virginia State College to provide nest boxes, some of which were crafted by Mrs. Evans herself. She meticulously supplied the cardinal nests, nestled in thorny shrubs, with fresh twigs, grasses, and various seeds, including sunflower seeds when available.
The Evanses had been actively supporting cardinals in Pennsylvania and Ohio before relocating to West Virginia permanently. Their dedication and knowledge played a vital role in the successful establishment of Northern Cardinals in West Virginia’s natural landscape.
The Preservation of a State Symbol
The most significant contribution of Drs. William H. and Frances C. Evans was their vision of preserving the Northern Cardinal as a symbol of West Virginia. In a letter dated July 1939, they articulated their commitment to “preserve this beautiful songster by releasing only well-tamed captive-bred birds.” Their dedication ensured that the cardinal remained a cherished state emblem.
The Diversity of West Virginian Cardinals
West Virginia’s diverse topography provides seven major habitats for Northern Cardinals: the Appalachian Plateau, Ridge and Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, Allegheny Highlands, Interior Low Plateaus, Kanawha River Valley/Coalfields, and Greenbrier River. These distinct regions give rise to variations of cardinals, such as the western cardinal (Cardinalis caudacutus), which nests west of the Allegheny Front but east of the Monongahela River.
The Northern Cardinal, designated as West Virginia’s state bird in 1928, is the most recognized and celebrated songbird west of the Allegheny Front. Drs. William H. and Frances C. Evans, during their tenure at Cheat Lake Inn from 1919 to 1947, observed and contributed significantly to the establishment of this iconic species in West Virginia.
Conclusion
The Northern Cardinal, with its vivid plumage and melodious song, has found a permanent home in the hearts of West Virginians. Its journey from rarity to state symbol is a testament to the dedication of Drs. William H. and Frances C. Evans and the enduring allure of this magnificent bird. West Virginia’s Northern Cardinal continues to paint the state’s woodlands, forests, and backyards with the vibrant hues of its presence, making it a cherished symbol of West Virginia’s natural beauty.