Why do leaves turn red in winter?

Leaves typically turn red in autumn, not winter, due to a breakdown of chlorophyll, which reveals pigments like anthocyanins. These pigments can help protect the leaf from UV light and prevent water loss. In winter, leaves usually fall off deciduous trees, so the vibrant red coloration is not commonly observed during this season. Instead, the focus shifts to the bare branches and the tree's survival strategies in cold weather.