Northern Cardinal

An interesting cardinal bird fact—the male’s bold red coloration is thought to help attract mates. The brightness of plumage is related to diet. Male cardinals’ vivid red color comes from carotenoid pigments, which are found in red fruits. Eating more of these scarlet-hued berries, especially during molting, helps a male form brighter red feathers. Studies indicate that the showier males tend to hold better territories, provide extra parental care and show higher nesting success. https://www.birdsandblooms.com/birding/birding-basics/cardinal-bird-facts/