Red and Yellow Cardinals (IMAGE) Washington University School of Medicine Caption Scientists have identified the gene that allows birds, such as the cardinal, to make red feathers. Rare yellow cardinals with defects in the production of red coloration are sometimes seen in the wild. Credit Geoffrey E. Hill (red cardinal) and Jim McCormac (yellow cardinal) Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.