Female Northern Cardinal feeding a young fledgling on grass in early September.

Northern Cardinal Feeding Fledgling in Late Summer

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Yesterday morning, September 12, I watched a male and female Northern Cardinal in my yard feeding a fledgling. Northern Cardinal feeding fledgling behavior is common even in September because these birds often raise multiple broods. While many species stop by midsummer, cardinals prove more flexible and keep tending young into early fall.

Wildlife Notes: Late-Summer Cardinal Parenting

In the first photo, the female leans toward the fledgling, placing food directly into its open beak. The young bird is capable of pecking at seeds but still begs persistently by fluttering its wings and calling. This ensures it gets enough nourishment while learning how to feed on its own.

Female Northern Cardinal feeding a young fledgling on grass in early September.
A female Northern Cardinal feeds her fledgling on the ground, showing late-summer parental care.

In the second photo, the male stands out with his bright red plumage, even though molting has left his feathers slightly scruffy. He continues to feed alongside the female, showing how both parents share responsibility. Northern Cardinals often feed fledglings for weeks after they leave the nest, which is why seeing this behavior in late summer is not unusual. This persistence highlights their resilience and adaptability in different seasons.

Male Northern Cardinal with red plumage feeding alongside fledgling perched on a rock.
A molting male Northern Cardinal perched on a rock beside a begging fledgling during late-summer feeding.

Photography Notes: Capturing Fledgling Feedings

First Photo Settings:

  • Camera: Canon EOS R5 Mark II
  • Lens: Canon RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 L IS USM
  • Aperture: ƒ/8
  • Shutter Speed: 1/2000 second
  • ISO: 5000

Second Photo Settings:

  • Camera: Canon EOS R5 Mark II
  • Lens: Canon RF 100–500mm F4.5–7.1 L IS USM
  • Aperture: ƒ/8
  • Shutter Speed: 1/800 second
  • ISO: 6400

One useful tip is to listen for begging calls. Once you hear them, you can anticipate the parent’s arrival and prepare your focus. In addition, patience is key. Cardinals are shy and may retreat into cover, so remaining still and at a respectful distance helps them behave naturally.

Seeing a Northern Cardinal feeding fledgling in September is a reminder of the dedication and care these birds show. For bird lovers, it demonstrates the resilience of a backyard favorite. For photographers, it is an excellent opportunity to document late-season family behavior that often goes unnoticed.

Update: September 13 Observation

Male Northern Cardinal feeding a juvenile on a branch in mid-September.
A male Northern Cardinal offers food directly to a juvenile on a branch, photographed September 13.

Yesterday, September 13, I photographed the male Northern Cardinal feeding a juvenile. This new image further highlights how long cardinal parents continue their care into late summer. The behavior shows the ongoing role of the male in providing food, even after multiple weeks of fledgling support.

See my related post on Northern Cardinal parenting and aggression.