The males don't get bold red feathers immediately ... In addition to having a more subdued coloring, female cardinals also lack the black mask that male cardinals sport around the face.

Perhaps in the next week a fresh snow will provide conditions for a bright red cardinal to land on a frosted branch and provide that perfect holiday-card view.

The vibrant red plumage of the male cardinals is not only eye-catching but also carries symbolism. The bright red color links ...