Cardinals, with their vibrant red plumage, are a welcome sight at any bird feeder. Attracting these beautiful birds to your backyard requires understanding their dietary preferences. While they'll sample a variety of foods, certain seeds are particularly appealing to cardinals. This guide will explore the best birdseed for cardinals, helping you create a backyard haven these captivating birds will love.
What Kind of Bird Seed Do Cardinals Like Best?
Cardinals are primarily granivores, meaning their diet consists largely of seeds. They have strong beaks designed for cracking open tough shells. Therefore, the best birdseed for cardinals includes options with larger, harder seeds that offer a challenge and a rewarding nutritional payoff.
Top Choices:
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Black oil sunflower seeds: These are the undisputed champion of cardinal attractants. Their high oil content makes them incredibly nutritious and irresistible to cardinals. The thin shells are also relatively easy for them to crack open.
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Safflower seeds: Another excellent choice, safflower seeds are a good alternative if you're trying to limit squirrels and other seed-hogging critters from your feeders. Cardinals love them, but many other birds and mammals find them less appealing.
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White-striped sunflower seeds: Similar to black oil sunflower seeds in nutritional value, these are a slightly more affordable option, although the thicker shells may require a bit more effort for the cardinals.
What Seeds Should I Avoid for Cardinals?
While cardinals will sample a variety of seeds, some are less appealing or even detrimental to their health.
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Cracked corn: While cardinals may eat a small amount, it’s not a primary food source and offers limited nutritional value compared to other options.
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Milo: This seed is too hard for many birds, including cardinals, to crack open.
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Small seeds like millet: Although some birds enjoy millet, cardinals generally prefer larger seeds that provide a more substantial reward for their efforts.
What Other Foods Do Cardinals Eat?
Beyond seeds, cardinals appreciate a variety of other foods:
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Suet: This high-energy food is especially helpful during cold winter months. Suet cakes or suet feeders containing seeds and nuts are a welcome addition to your bird feeding station.
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Fruits: Berries and other fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals.
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Insects: Especially important for fledglings, insects are a vital source of protein. Leaving some areas of your garden slightly unkempt can attract beneficial insects.
How Often Should I Fill My Bird Feeder?
Keeping your bird feeder consistently full is crucial, particularly during harsh weather conditions. Check your feeder regularly and refill it as needed to avoid disappointing your feathered friends. The frequency will depend on the number of birds visiting and the size of your feeder.
What Type of Bird Feeder Is Best for Cardinals?
Cardinals prefer feeders that allow them to feed comfortably without competition from other birds. Tube feeders with perches, hopper feeders with large openings, or platform feeders are all suitable options. Consider choosing feeders that are less accessible to squirrels and other larger animals.
Are There Any Specific Brands of Bird Seed That Cardinals Prefer?
Cardinals don't have brand preferences! Focus on the type of seed rather than the brand. Look for high-quality seed blends that feature a substantial proportion of black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds. Avoid mixes that are heavily diluted with filler such as cracked corn or millet.
Can I Grow My Own Bird Seed to Attract Cardinals?
Absolutely! Planting sunflowers (both black oil and white-striped varieties) in your garden is a fantastic way to provide a natural and abundant food source for cardinals and other birds. Consider planting a variety of native plants that also produce berries and seeds to create a truly vibrant and bird-friendly habitat.
By carefully selecting the best birdseed and offering a diverse range of supplemental foods, you can significantly increase your chances of attracting cardinals to your backyard. Remember to provide clean water and a safe environment to make your yard a welcoming haven for these beautiful birds year-round.
