Cardinals, with their vibrant red plumage (males) and beautiful songs, are a delight to any birdwatcher. Attracting these stunning birds to your backyard requires more than just scattering seeds. Choosing the right bird feeder is crucial. This guide will help you select the best bird feeder for cardinals, ensuring these captivating creatures grace your garden with their presence.
What Makes a Bird Feeder Cardinal-Friendly?
Before diving into specific feeder types, let's understand what cardinals prefer. They're relatively large birds with sturdy beaks, and they appreciate feeders that offer easy access to their favorite foods without much competition from smaller birds.
- Robust Construction: Cardinals are strong birds, so the feeder needs to withstand their weight and pecking. Look for durable materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic.
- Easy Access to Food: Avoid feeders with tiny perches or complicated mechanisms that might hinder their feeding. Open trays or large platforms are ideal.
- Protection from the Elements: A covered feeder protects the seeds from rain and snow, keeping them fresh and appealing to cardinals.
- Suet Capacity (Optional): While cardinals primarily eat seeds, they also enjoy suet during colder months. A feeder with a suet compartment can be a bonus.
Types of Bird Feeders Ideal for Cardinals
Several feeder types excel at attracting cardinals. Here are some of the top contenders:
1. Platform Feeders
Why they're great for cardinals: Platform feeders offer a large, open area for cardinals to feed comfortably. This eliminates competition from smaller, more agile birds that might otherwise dominate smaller feeding ports. They are also easier to clean.
Things to consider: Platform feeders can be susceptible to seed waste and may attract other animals like squirrels. Choose one with a protective cage or skirt to minimize spillage and deter unwanted guests.
2. Tray Feeders
Why they're great for cardinals: Similar to platform feeders, tray feeders offer ample space for multiple cardinals to feed simultaneously. They are often larger than platform feeders, offering even more room.
Things to consider: Like platform feeders, they are prone to seed waste and might attract unwanted visitors. Consider a design with a roof to protect the seeds.
3. Hopper Feeders (with large perches)
Why they're great for cardinals (with modification): While traditional hopper feeders with small perches might not be ideal, some larger hopper feeders with wide perches can accommodate cardinals. The key is finding one with a substantial perch and multiple feeding ports.
Things to consider: Ensure the perches are wide and sturdy enough for cardinals to comfortably perch and feed without difficulty.
What Kind of Birdseed Do Cardinals Like?
Offering the right food is just as crucial as choosing the right feeder. Cardinals are fond of:
- Sunflower seeds (black oil is best): These are a cardinal favorite and packed with energy.
- Cracked corn: This is another popular choice among cardinals.
- Nyjer seeds: While smaller birds enjoy these, cardinals may also visit the feeder if other seeds are scarce.
- Safflower seeds: This is a good option because it tends to be less attractive to other birds, thus reducing competition for cardinals.
H2: What is the best place to put a cardinal feeder?
The ideal location for your cardinal feeder is a spot that offers:
- Protection from predators: Place the feeder away from bushes and trees where cats or other predators might hide.
- Visibility: Cardinals feel safer feeding in open areas where they have a clear view of their surroundings.
- Shelter from the elements: Place the feeder in a location sheltered from strong winds and direct sunlight.
H2: How often should I fill a cardinal feeder?
The frequency of filling your cardinal feeder depends on the size of the feeder, the number of cardinals visiting, and the weather conditions. Aim to check and refill your feeder at least every other day, or more frequently in cold weather or when many birds are feeding.
H2: What are some other ways to attract cardinals to my backyard?
Beyond feeders, consider these tips to make your backyard a cardinal haven:
- Plant native shrubs and trees: Cardinals appreciate dense vegetation for shelter and nesting.
- Provide a water source: A birdbath or shallow dish of water will attract cardinals, especially during hot weather.
- Avoid using pesticides: Chemical pesticides can harm cardinals and other birds.
- Keep cats indoors: Cats are a major predator of birds.
By selecting the right feeder, providing nutritious food, and creating a welcoming habitat, you'll increase your chances of attracting these beautiful cardinals to your backyard and enjoy their presence for years to come.