It is always a joy to see the bright red color of a male Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), especially during the winter, when the world seems almost monochromatic. I spotted this one yesterday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge as he pecked about in the drifted snow. We have had only a small amount of snow, but the weather has remained steadfastly below freezing, so it has stayed with us for an extended period of time.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
We sometimes see these guys here in the winter. As soon as I saw the title I was hoping for that lovely contrast between red and white. Thanks for sharing this one, Mike.
Thanks, Dan. Generally I get a glimpse of a cardinal when he is buried in a bush or poking about in the underbrush. When I saw this one in the snow I was delighted and took some shots from a distance. As I suspected, when I moved a little closer, the cardinal flew away. I only wish that I could get bluebirds to cooperate and perch in the snow.
That would be pretty, but this was a treat.
Beautiful capture, Mike, with his crest standing up perfectly and wonderful contrast with the snow. Those glimpses are what I”m familiar with and plenty of shots of their buts leaving.
Thanks, Ellen. I tend to be patient and persistent, which definitely helps with wildlife photography.
These stand out so much. Great colour and contrast, Mike!
Cardinals have always been a favorite of mine since early childhood. The male is an amazing color, but I’ve always had a fondness for the female’s coloring too. I’m sure you are aware that January 5th. was National Bird Day, though not officially by vote of Congress. Your magnificent photos of these different species are a source of great pleasure to Benjamin and I. Thank-you so much for sharing these treasures.
Lovely portrait. I love to see cardinals all year around but they do look extra bright and bold against pure white snow. There is also something extra cheering about seeing that red glow in these dull winter days.
That’s a beautiful shot.
I see a lot of what I think are dark eyed juncos sitting in the snow like that.
Very beautiful photo.