Brilliant red year-round bird of the East. Common in Eastern US into the Southwest; prefers dense vegetation and edges; often seen at feeders. Largish songbird with long tail, crest, and stout bill; male bright red, female brown with red accents. Unlike most North American birds, both females and males sing. May form flocks up to a few dozen in winter. Diet mainly seeds and fruit, with some insects. Female builds nest in low vegetation. Lifespan up to 15 years. Population ~ 120 million and increasing.