Yes, there are cardinals in Arizona. The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident in Southeast Arizona, including desert areas where it prefers hackberry and mesquite thickets. The desert subspecies found there is larger with a stouter bill and a taller crest compared to other subspecies. Male cardinals are brilliant red, and females are rich tan with red tinges. They are common in backyards and gardens and can be attracted with sunflower seeds, oranges, or grapes.