Cardinals are a favorite among bird watchers, backyard enthusiasts, and gardeners alike. With their vibrant red feathers and melodic songs, these iconic birds bring a touch of nature’s beauty right to your yard. But how can you create the perfect environment to attract cardinals, and what’s the best bird feeder to keep them coming back? This guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Cardinals Are Special
Cardinals are beloved for their fiery red plumage (in males) and their rich, complex songs, which often greet the morning with cheerful melodies. Unlike migratory birds, cardinals stay put year-round, making them a delightful addition to your backyard in all seasons. You’ll often see cardinals in pairs, as they are known for their strong monogamous bonding. Their vibrant presence and constant activity make them a favorite for bird lovers and nature photographers alike.
Understanding Cardinal Feeding Preferences
To attract cardinals, it’s essential to understand their eating habits:
- Favorite Foods:
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- Black-oil sunflower seeds
- Safflower seeds
- Cracked corn
- Peanut pieces
- Nyjer seeds (in combination with other seeds for variety)
- Feeding Habits:
Cardinals prefer solid surfaces or larger perches when feeding. Unlike small, fluttering birds, they like to hop onto a stable feeder or a flat platform to perch while eating. They’re ground feeders by nature, so a feeder with easy access to seeds works best.
Types of Bird Feeders Cardinals Prefer
When shopping for a cardinal-friendly feeder, look for designs that cater specifically to their feeding preferences. Here are three types of feeders that work well for cardinals:
1. Hopper Feeders
Hopper feeders often look like little houses. Their enclosed design protects seeds from rain and snow while offering a ledge or landing area where cardinals can perch. Many models also have wide openings for easy refilling and cleaning.
2. Platform Feeders
Platform feeders provide a flat, open surface for seeds. Cardinals love these because they mimic their preferred ground-feeding habits. While they’re simple in design, they do expose seeds to rain, so try to select one with a drainage system.
3. Tube Feeders with Large Perches
Tube feeders often attract smaller birds, but if they’re equipped with wider or longer perches, cardinals can use them too. Look for models with feeding ports big enough for cardinals’ larger beaks.
The Best Bird Feeders for Cardinals
Here are some of the top bird feeder options for cardinals:
1. Kingsyard Bird Feeder House
Key Features:
- Triple feeding compartments for various seeds.
- Built-in drainage holes to keep seeds fresh.
- A charming red house design made entirely of weatherproof metal.
- Removable roof for easy cleaning and refilling.
- 360-degree perch to accommodate multiple birds.
Pros:
- Attracts a variety of birds, including cardinals, finches, and chickadees.
- Durable and rust-resistant for all-season use.
Cons:
- Its smaller ledges may favor small to medium birds over larger cardinals.
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2. Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Bird Feeder
Features:
- Specially designed with a sloped roof to keep seeds dry.
- Easy twist-off top for hassle-free refilling.
- Large perch designed specifically to accommodate cardinals.
3. Woodlink Platform Bird Feeder
Features:
- Large, flat surface perfect for multiple cardinals to feed comfortably.
- Made from recycled plastic for durability.
- Includes drainage holes to prevent rainwater from ruining the seeds.
Top Tips for Attracting Cardinals
Beyond choosing the right feeder, follow these strategies to make your backyard irresistible to cardinals.
1. Choose the Right Food
Fill your feeders with cardinal favorites such as black-oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds. These high-fat foods help sustain them through cold winters and ensure they keep returning.
2. Place Feeders Strategically
Position feeders in a quiet, shaded area to make cardinals feel safe. They prefer feeders near trees or shrubs where they can retreat quickly if they sense danger.
3. Provide a Water Source
Cardinals, like all birds, need water for drinking and bathing. Add a birdbath or water fountain to your yard for an added attraction.
4. Create a Safe Environment
Avoid using feeders without predator guards if you have squirrels or cats in the area. Predators can deter cardinals and other birds from visiting.
5. Plant Native Shrubs and Trees
Native shrubs and trees not only provide natural food sources like berries but also create shelter. Cardinals love species like dogwoods, mulberry trees, and wild grapevines.
6. Keep Feeders Clean
Dirty feeders can harbor moldy seeds or bacteria, which may harm visiting birds. Clean and refill your feeder every two weeks to keep your visitors healthy.
Invite Cardinals to Your Backyard Today!
Creating a cozy haven for cardinals is easier than you think. From tailored feeders like the Kingsyard Bird Feeder House to thoughtful placement and food choices, these small steps bring vibrant red cardinals closer to home. Set up your feeder today and enjoy the beauty and joy they bring to your backyard all year round.
Click here to buy the Kingsyard Bird Feeder and start attracting cardinals today!