Seven birds stand out across America for their striking looks, unusual personalities, and strong ties to places ranging from Hawaii and Louisiana to Minnesota and Arizona.

Even on a steamy August day, my spirit animal sings. Richee-ear. Richee-ear. Rit. Rit. Rit. Rit. Birdy. Birdy. Birdy. Cheer. Cheer. Cheer. The northern cardinal’s varied melodic notes shine like a ...