Cardinal birds, with their striking red plumage (males) and charming beauty, are a delight to any backyard. Attracting these feathered friends to your garden requires providing them with the right food. This guide will explore the best cardinal bird food options, helping you create a thriving avian haven.
What Do Cardinals Eat in the Wild?
Before diving into commercially available options, understanding a cardinal's natural diet is crucial. In their natural habitat, cardinals primarily consume seeds, berries, and insects. Their strong beaks are perfectly adapted for cracking open seeds, and they're particularly fond of those with a high oil content. This knowledge informs the best choices for supplemental feeding.
Best Types of Cardinal Bird Food
Several types of birdseed are particularly attractive to cardinals:
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Sunflower Seeds (Black Oil): These are the undisputed champion. Black oil sunflower seeds are high in oil, providing cardinals with essential energy and nutrients. Their thin shells make them easy for cardinals to crack open, even for younger birds. This is arguably the single best choice for attracting cardinals.
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Safflower Seeds: Another excellent option, safflower seeds are a favorite of cardinals and are less appealing to other birds like squirrels and pigeons, ensuring more food reaches your intended guests.
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Nyjer Seeds (Thistle Seeds): While primarily associated with smaller birds like finches, cardinals will also consume nyjer seeds, especially during lean times or when other preferred options are scarce.
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White-Striped Sunflower Seeds: These offer a good balance of nutritional value and appeal, although black oil sunflower seeds generally outperform them in attracting cardinals specifically.
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Cracked Corn: While not as nutrient-rich as seeds, cracked corn provides a good source of carbohydrates and can be included in a varied diet.
What Kind of Bird Feeder Should I Use?
The type of feeder you use significantly impacts the success of your cardinal-feeding efforts. Tube feeders, especially those with multiple feeding ports, are excellent choices. These prevent larger birds from dominating the feeder and allow several cardinals to feed simultaneously. Hopper feeders can also work, but ensure they have sufficiently sized perches to accommodate cardinals' size.
What NOT to Feed Cardinals?
Avoid feeding cardinals foods that are harmful or offer little nutritional value. This includes:
- Bread: Bread offers little nutritional value and can actually be detrimental to their health.
- Cooked Foods: Avoid offering any cooked human food, as it lacks essential nutrients and can be harmful.
- Moldy or Spoiled Food: Always ensure the food you provide is fresh and free from mold or spoilage.
How Often Should I Refill My Cardinal Feeder?
Regularly check and refill your feeder, particularly during colder months when food sources are scarce. Keeping the feeder consistently full significantly increases your chances of attracting and retaining cardinals. Aim for daily checks, especially in winter.
What Other Things Attract Cardinals?
Beyond food, providing a safe and attractive habitat plays a crucial role in attracting cardinals. This includes:
- Water Source: Providing a clean water source, such as a birdbath, is essential, especially during hot weather.
- Shelter: Dense shrubs and trees offer safe nesting and roosting sites.
How to Keep Squirrels Away from Cardinal Feeders?
Squirrels can be a nuisance, consuming a significant portion of the birdseed intended for cardinals. Consider using squirrel-resistant feeders with cages or baffles to deter them.
Are Cardinals Aggressive Towards Other Birds?
Cardinals can be territorial, particularly during breeding season. While generally not aggressive towards other bird species, they may display dominance at the feeder, occasionally chasing away smaller birds. Offering a variety of feeders and food sources helps mitigate this.
Can I Attract Cardinals Year-Round?
Yes! By providing a consistent food source and a safe habitat, you can attract cardinals throughout the year. They are relatively common backyard birds, and with the right approach, you can enjoy their beauty year-round.
By following these guidelines and providing the best cardinal bird food, you'll significantly increase your chances of attracting these vibrant birds to your garden, bringing joy and beauty to your outdoor space.
