AppearanceMales are unmistakably vivid red with a distinctive crest and black mask around the bill. Females are warm buff-brown with red tinges on crest, wings, and tail — equally striking in their subtler way.HabitatDense shrubby edges, woodland borders, overgrown gardens, and brushy hedgerows. Favors areas with dense low cover for nesting.BehaviourBoth sexes sing, an unusual trait among songbirds. Clear whistled phrases include 'cheer-cheer-cheer' and 'birdy-birdy-birdy'. Males defend territory vigorously and occasionally attack their own reflections in windows.SeasonalityNon-migratory. Present year-round throughout its range, with males especially visible against winter snow.RangeEastern North America from Canada south through Central America. Range has expanded north and west over the past century.