Vibrant red birds seem to bring even more cheer to the season, but their meaning has impact year-round.

Red birdsalso known as Northern Cardinalsare popular images in holiday decor.

When cardinals appear in their bright colors in the cold months, they echo the saturated shadestypical of holidaydecor.

Cardinal

Gary Carter/Getty Images.Credit:Gary Carter/Getty Images

The male cardinals that visit our homes are especially vibrant.

Theyre the bright red birds with pointed crowns that you see flitting around trees and feeders.

They survive the harsh winter by feeding on seeds, berries, and all manner of insects.

Cardinal

Credit:Larry Keller, Lititz Pa./Getty Images

While they typically forage on the ground, they nest in dense growth habits of low shrubs.

The birds appreciate a bevy of berries in wintertime.

are also known to attract cardinals.

Cardinal

Credit:Robert Winkler/Getty Images

According to theFarmers Almanac, northern cardinals are associated with legends across a variety of cultures and religions.

You will not just attract cardinals, but a bevy of other winged lovelies.

Red birds have come to hold many symbolic connections during the holiday season and beyond.

When you see a Northern Cardinal this winter, it may offer an opportunity for reflection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Northern cardinals have an average lifespan of at least three years.

However, there have been reports of cardinals growing as old as 15 years.

Seeing a cardinal with an orangish-yellow hue has been reported over time.

This deviation in coloration is sparked by a genetic mutation.