Cardinal Bird Seed: What Works, What Doesn’t

Cardinals are ground feeders by nature, often foraging in the low bushes or on the ground. But what makes them unique is their feeding preference. They have strong, thick beaks, designed to crack open hard shells. This means they favor larger seeds, and the best cardinal bird seed is one that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them coming back. Many common bird seed mixes contain fillers like millet and milo, which cardinals tend to avoid. To keep cardinals happy and returning to your yard, you need to offer them high-quality, nutrient-rich cardinal bird seed.

Let’s break down some of the best seeds you can offer to cardinals, starting with the essentials:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
  Arguably the best cardinal bird seed you can offer. Packed with fat and protein, these seeds are not only nutritious but also easy for cardinals to crack open with their sturdy beaks. The high fat content is crucial, especially during colder months when birds need more energy. Black oil sunflower seeds are small enough to be handled easily and large enough to appeal to cardinals.

• Safflower Seeds
  Cardinals love safflower seeds, even though other birds may ignore them. This makes safflower seeds an excellent addition to any cardinal bird seed mix, as it attracts cardinals while keeping other species at bay. It’s a win-win for creating a cardinal-focused feeder.

• Striped Sunflower Seeds
  Like black oil sunflower seeds, striped sunflower seeds are a hit with cardinals. These seeds are larger and harder to crack than black oil sunflower seeds, making them a more challenging food source that other birds may leave alone. For cardinals, though, these are perfect.

• Peanuts
  Crushed peanuts or pieces make a wonderful addition to your cardinal bird seed offerings. They are rich in fats and protein, making them ideal for cold winter months when cardinals need extra energy. Just be cautious about attracting other wildlife when offering peanuts.

• Raisins
  Cardinals will happily eat raisins. This adds some variety to their diet. While not a primary food, raisins are a nice treat that cardinals appreciate, especially when they’re looking for a sweet snack.

• Cherries
  Cardinals also enjoy fruits like cherries, but make sure to offer them pitted and in small, manageable pieces. Fresh or dried cherries can be a great source of vitamins and add a bit of sweetness to their diet, especially in the spring and summer months.

Now, let’s talk about what cardinal bird seed is not. Many commercially available bird seed mixes include filler seeds that are cheap but unappealing to cardinals. These can waste space in your feeders and lead to more frequent cleanings.

• Millet
  Millet is often used as a cheap filler in bird seed mixes, but it’s not part of a quality cardinal bird seed mix. Cardinals prefer larger, more nutritious seeds, and millet often gets left behind.

• Red Milo
  Another popular filler often found in cardinal bird seed mixes that you should avoid. Milo is larger, but its low nutritional value makes it unappealing to many birds, especially cardinals. Avoid mixes with high quantities of milo to ensure you’re not wasting money on uneaten seed.

• Wheat and Oats
  Though these grains are common in certain bird mixes, they hold little appeal to cardinals. If you want to focus on quality cardinal bird seed, steer clear of these ingredients.

Offering the right cardinal bird seed is just one part of the equation. Cardinals are shy birds, and they won’t frequent your yard unless they feel safe and comfortable. Here’s how you can set the stage for their visits.

1. Choose the Right Feeder

Cardinals have a unique feeding style, preferring larger, more open feeders where they can perch comfortably. Traditional tube feeders can be a bit tricky for them. Instead, opt for platform feeders, hopper feeders, or feeders with perches.

Platform feeders are particularly effective because they offer ample space for cardinals to land and feed at their leisure. Additionally, hanging feeders with large, sturdy perches can work well, as long as the cardinal has room to balance.

2. Location, Location, Location

Location matters. Cardinals like to feel secure while they feed. Position your feeder near shrubs or trees where they can retreat quickly if they sense danger. A feeder placed in an open area can make cardinals feel exposed, so always consider their safety when offering cardinal bird seed.

3. Keep the Feeders Clean

Dirty feeders can lead to spoiled cardinal bird seed and deter birds from returning. Make it a habit to clean your feeders regularly to ensure the seed stays fresh and healthy. This will encourage frequent visits and keep your cardinals happy.

Cardinals are year-round residents in many regions, so providing the right cardinal bird seed throughout the seasons is important. Here’s how to adjust your feeding routine as the seasons change:

Winter Feeding

Winter is when cardinals need high-energy cardinal bird seed the most. Seeds rich in fats, such as sunflower seeds and peanuts, are essential for keeping them warm and energized. Make sure your feeders are stocked with cardinal bird seed that’s suited to the cold weather.

Spring and Summer Feeding

In the warmer months, cardinals may eat a wider variety of foods, including insects and fruit. You can continue to offer cardinal bird seed, but feel free to add some fresh fruit, like berries, to their diet as well. This variety helps support their nesting and breeding activities.

In addition to using the right cardinal bird seed, there are a few extra ways to make your yard irresistible to cardinals:

• Add Bird Baths: Cardinals love water, not just for drinking but also for bathing. A shallow bird bath with fresh water can be a huge draw, especially in the summer when water sources may dry up. Position the bird bath near some low-hanging trees to give cardinals a safe spot after a dip.

• Provide Shelter: Cardinals nest in dense shrubs and low trees. Planting native bushes, evergreens, or even adding a brush pile can create the perfect nesting environment. The more natural cover you offer, the more likely cardinals will make your yard their home base.

• Avoid Pesticides: Cardinals will occasionally feed on insects, especially when feeding young. Using pesticides can reduce this natural food source. By avoiding chemicals, you’ll create a healthier environment for birds and encourage a balanced ecosystem.

Attracting cardinals is as much about offering the right cardinal bird seed as it is about creating the perfect environment. From sunflower and safflower seeds to peanuts and even fruits like cherries, offering a diverse and nutritious seed mix will help bring these beautiful birds to your yard. Remember, it’s not just about feeding them; it’s about understanding what they need and how to provide it consistently.

Invest in high-quality cardinal bird seed today, and you’ll be rewarded with the delightful sight of cardinals visiting your feeders all year long!