The Northern Cardinal ('Cardinalis cardinalis') is a bird in the genus 'Cardinalis'; it is also known colloquially as the redbird, common cardinal, red cardinal, or just cardinal (which was its name prior to 1985). It can be found in southeastern Canada, through the eastern United States from Maine to Minnesota to Texas, and south through Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. It is also an introduced species in a few locations such as Bermuda and Hawaii. Its habitat includes woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands.

The male northern cardinal is instantly recognizable, being completely red in color, whereas the female cardinal has tan feathers with a red wash across the chest. Male and female cardinals also have different colors in their beaks as males have red beaks and females have orange beaks.

It is believed that spotting a cardinal means something good is on the horizon, and it urges you to follow your passion and dreams. Since cardinals are a sign of compassion, some experts associate seeing one in your dreams with new hope and love. Their bright red color is a symbolic signpost of passion.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org