Hi Richard,
I would advise you to look up "sybolism of animals or something of that nature. Animal totems sites can also give you some insight into what the meaning is when you see a particular animal in a not so usual way, ie coming straight at you, seeing them over and over again etc.
Think about what you were doing/thinking when you saw the animal, whats going on in your life at the time etc.
during the time in my life that i saw a Raven everyday before I went to work...then several at a time over my house as I was driving up from work..etc. Well during this time I was in for a major surprise and I believe they were giving me a "warning" to be aware/prepared. Not all sighting are negative like mine, but at that time it did make me wonder...lol
I suggest you start with totems and go from there:-) I have found information from Totems helped me out a lot in the past and I have a deck called Medicine Cards. You can then venture out from the totems into Angels. I have lots of info but have to "find" it first..lol I will forward it when I do. In the meantime, I have found a few links for you.
There are no coincidences you know...the fact that you got the Cardinal card after seeing that particular bird does mean something. How did you feel after reading the message?

I had a dream last night and had to go searching for info on the animal, the color of the animal and the meaning of the animals actions this morning. Boy! lol Interpretation can get tricky but always use your INTUITION to help you decipher.
TRGIAOB ~ANGEL OF WILD BIRDS
DOMINION: This heavenly angel holds dominion over wild birds. He Loves animals and keeps them safe from harm. He inspires us to Love and appreciate the beauty of all birds.
GUIDANCE: Angel of Wild Birds
SAMPLE AFFIRMATION: I AM soaring through Life like a bird spreading its wings.
SAMPLE PRAYER: Angel of Wild Birds, when I look at any bird, help me to understand that I too can fly high when I spread my wings and follow my passion. Help me to be courageous when I take flight on my intended path that God created for me.
Through Jesus Christ's Precious, Pure and Holy name I pray. -
Amen Link=>
http://www.drstandley.com/angels_trgiaob.shtmlI found a book review from
SUMMONING ANGELS Claire NahmadReviewThis exceptionally good book explores in depth the practical realities of living, working and communing with angels. Beautifully written, Summoning Angels gives you the answers you want and haven't yet found on subjects like how best to prepare yourself for working with angels, what it feels like to be in the presence of an angel, how to establish direct communion with your guardian angel, and how you can receive the help of angels even when you are feeling low and cut off from them. There are two wonderful chapters on the special, mystical link between angels and birds and how angels often use birds to communicate with us. The touch of an angel can spark a closer connection between our soul and spirit, which we may experience as a state of pure love almost too exquisite to bear. This profound experience of the soul is also explored by Claire Nahmad, and illustrated by ancient tales such as that of Cupid and Psyche. Finally, she offers deeply spiritual rituals and ceremonies for connecting with angels. How did Claire come to write such a lovely book? She must have been inspired by angels.....
'Even though I've read 100s of books on angels, I still find valuable insights in this one, and I especially love the unique section on birds!' Ann Napier
224pp, 133mm x 216mm, softback, 2004
http://www.cygnus-books.co.uk/summoning-angels-claire-nahmad-p13709.htmlAnimal Totems: robin & cardinal
Robin: Keeper of SpringtimeMeanings / Messages: creation, grounding, new growth, family
The robin with its red breast and trilling song awakens us to the spring season. When robin totem makes its appearance you can expect new spurt of growth or a new beginning for yourself. This bird is associated with the spring equinox, reaffirming the importance of seasonal changes. Are you honoring change in your life or are you stuck in old patterns. The robin teaches us to move forward and not to be afraid to try new things. The robin gets its nourishment from the earth, pulling earthworms out of the soil.It is true that the early bird gets the worm! Ask yourself, are you taking full advantage of new opportunities? Also, this action reminds us to ground our bodies and pull up life energies from the earth to nourish our spiritual selves.
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http://healing.about.com/od/animaltotems/ig/Animal-Totems-Photo-Gallery/Robin.htmCardinal: Keeper of VitalityMeanings and Messages: self-acknowledgement, life-blood, revived energy, responsibility toward family
The cardinal, a red finch, is easily recognized among other birds. Cardinals also tend to stick around for all seasons so easy to spot year round. As a totem they interject vitality or serve as a reminder that vitality is lacking. What is your energy level right now? You may also need to brighten up a drab wardrobe with some color. Cardinals will whistle loudly to alert danger, for this reason a cardinal sighting can be a signal to be on alert for possible trouble. The cardinal is family-oriented. The male helps out with feeding and protecting the fledglings. Ask yourself if family members are at risk or need extra care.
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http://healing.about.com/od/animaltotems/ig/Animal-Totems-Photo-Gallery/Cardinal.htmI hope this helps! Remember always, to use your intuition and with any advice...please take what resonates and discard the rest

Have a wonderful day!
Blessings
Roz