On November 12, the Russian Orthodox Church honors the memory of the holy martyr Zinovy, Bishop of Egeya, and the martyr Zinovia, the priest’s sister.
In connection with these events, the people have adopted the name of the holiday "Zinovy" or "Zinovy Day". There are other names as well.
Traditions of the holiday
"Zinovy Day" or "Zinovy" was also nicknamed "Titmouse Day".
It was believed that today tits and bullfinches arrive for the winter, and along with them goldfinches.
In the old days it was customary to prepare for this event.
They always made bird feeders and hung them on the streets.
It was believed that if a titmouse flew into the yard on this day, the entire next year would pass in happiness and prosperity.
In addition to this sign, there were signs about the weather.
It was possible to find out what winter and even spring would be like.
Weather signs
If on November 12th it snows finely, like groats, the winter will be cold.
If a flock of tits flew to the house, then frost was expected soon.
The birds that start singing too early also promise a cold snap soon.
And if tits start pecking at the bark of trees, then the spring will be damp and rainy.
