History of the Cardinal Bird: Cardinal Bird Head, 1985-present

A history of the evolution of the University of Louisville's athletics mascot, known as the Cardinal Bird or Louie. Covers the development of the costume used for in-person appearances as well as the Cardinal Bird's depiction in print.

Cardinal Bird Head Logo

Around 1985, the Cardinal Bird's head began to be used as a logo on its own.

1985-2000

Initially, the head mirrored the head on the "full" mascot.

Image credit: logo used in "Basketball cards," 1985-86, Archives & Special Collections, University of Louisville.

The image above is from the 1985 basketball media guide. For comparison, the image below is from the program for the UofL-Southern Mississippi basketball game, February 24, 1988.

Cardinal Bird mascot, 1988 — Image credit: Louisville vs. Southern Mississippi Official Game Program [basketball], February 24, 1988, Archives & Special Collections, University of Louisville

2000-present

In 2000, the university announced "enhanced athletic marks."

The black lining around his beak and eye was streamlined and his head feathers took on a more aerodynamic appearance. The shape of his beak was also modified slightly.

An alternate version, with a wing, was included in the new trademarked logos.

Image credit (both logos): University of Louisville 2001-02 Basketball Guide, Archives & Special Collections, University of Louisville