Why are cardinal birds so prominent as mascots?

Answer by  BethBirder (232)

Cardinals don't really fight one another, although they will defend their nesting territory. This can result in "defending" against their own reflection in a window or a car's mirror! Cardinals are popular as mascots (and the state bird in SEVEN states!) because of their bold red plumage, fierce looking crest and black mask.

Answer by  AstroWiki (113)

Cardinals can be aggressive, similar to blue jays. They are also very striking in appearance, so they are common mascots for sports teams.