In an unprecedented wildlife event, twelve yellow northern cardinals have been spotted across five different US states since January 2024. These rare golden birds, typically bright red, are capturing the attention of both scientists and bird enthusiasts nationwide.
“This is absolutely extraordinary,” says Dr. Emma Rodriguez, lead ornithologist at Cornell University. “We typically see one yellow cardinal every few years. Having twelve in just months is unheard of.”
The birds have appeared in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Each sighting has been verified by expert ornithologists. This unusual cluster of sightings suggests something remarkable is happening in the cardinal population.
The yellow coloring comes from a genetic mutation. This mutation affects how the birds process the red pigments in their diet. Instead of turning bright red, affected cardinals develop golden yellow feathers.
“The odds of seeing a yellow cardinal are about one in a million,” explains wildlife photographer Mark Thompson. He captured stunning images of the Ohio specimen. “Getting photos of one was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Local bird watchers have been flocking to reported sighting locations. Sarah Chen, a citizen scientist in Pennsylvania, describes the moment she saw one. “It was like seeing a living ray of sunshine. The yellow feathers almost glowed.”
The first 2024 sighting occurred near Columbus, Ohio. A backyard bird enthusiast noticed the unusual visitor at their feeder. Since then, reports have steadily increased. Each new sighting has been carefully documented and confirmed.
Dr. James Wilson from the National Audubon Society provides context. “This could indicate environmental changes affecting cardinal genetics. We’re launching a detailed study to understand why.”
The yellow cardinals appear healthy and are behaving normally. They’re feeding, mating, and interacting with red cardinals as expected. This suggests the mutation doesn’t harm their survival chances.
Bird watchers hoping to spot these rare beauties should look in areas where regular cardinals gather. The yellow variants visit the same feeders and habitats as their red cousins.
“Keep your bird feeders full and your cameras ready,” advises Chen. “These golden birds could appear anywhere in the eastern United States.”
Scientists are asking the public to report any yellow cardinal sightings. Photos and location details help track this unusual phenomenon. Reports can be submitted through the Audubon Society’s website.
