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Northern Cardinals don’t just visit any feeder—they’re selective eaters with strong preferences that determine whether they become backyard regulars or occasional visitors. While many bird species will nibble on whatever you offer, cardinals zero in on specific seeds, especially black-oil sunflower and safflower varieties that match their powerful beaks and nutritional needs.
The difference between an empty feeder and a cardinal hotspot often comes down to understanding what these vibrant red birds actually want, from seed composition to feeder design. Getting the right bird food to attract cardinals means thinking like a cardinal—considering not just what’s in the blend, but how you present it, where you place it, and what kind of habitat surrounds it.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Best Bird Foods to Attract Cardinals
- Choosing Feeders Cardinals Love
- Cardinal Food Preferences and Nutrition
- Creating a Cardinal-Friendly Habitat
- Providing Water for Cardinals
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How can I attract Cardinals?
- What do Cardinals eat in a bird feeder?
- Do birds eat Cardinal seeds?
- What plants attract Cardinals?
- What is the best bird feeder for Cardinals?
- How do you attract Cardinals to a bird feeder?
- What types of feeders are best for cardinals?
- What food sources do cardinals prefer?
- Which plants are most attractive to cardinals?
- What nesting habitats do cardinals look for?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Cardinals are selective feeders with a strong preference for black-oil sunflower and safflower seeds, which match their powerful beaks and provide the high-fat content (36-40%) they need for energy, especially during winter months.
- Platform and hopper feeders work best for cardinals because these birds need sturdy, stable perches with ample space (8-10 inches minimum width) to comfortably crack seeds, and they prefer feeders placed 5-6 feet high near protective cover.
- Creating a cardinal-friendly habitat requires more than just feeders—you’ll need dense shrubs for nesting, native seed-bearing plants, evergreens for winter shelter, and fresh water sources at the right depth (2-3 inches) for safe bathing and drinking.
- During breeding season, adult cardinals shift almost entirely to feeding their chicks insects rather than seeds, so planting native species that support local insect populations helps sustain cardinal families through the nesting period.
Best Bird Foods to Attract Cardinals
If you want to see cardinals at your feeder, you’ll need to stock it with foods that match their nutritional needs and natural preferences. Cardinals thrive on high-energy seeds with dense fat content, especially during colder months when they need extra calories to stay warm.
Here are seven bird food options that consistently attract these bright red beauties to backyard feeding stations.
1. Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Bird Seed
If you’re after a seed mix that cardinals really flock to, Audubon Park Cardinal Blend delivers. This 4-pound blend skips the filler and gives you 100% black oil sunflower and safflower—two seeds Northern Cardinals crack open with ease.
You’ll attract chickadees, finches, and grosbeaks too. It works beautifully in hopper or platform feeders, and at around $8.79, it’s priced well compared to premium seed blends.
Some Kaytee Cardinal blend fans have switched over and noticed cardinals visiting more often, thanks to the oil-rich composition.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to attract cardinals and other colorful songbirds without paying for filler seeds that end up on the ground.
- 100% sunflower and safflower—no milo, millet, or cheap grains that most birds ignore
- Oil-rich seeds provide high energy for cardinals, chickadees, finches, and grosbeaks year-round
- Budget-friendly at around $8.79 for 4 pounds, especially compared to premium cardinal mixes
- Some bags contain dried berries that won’t fit through standard feeder holes
- Best suited for hopper or platform feeders—not ideal for small tube feeders
- The 4-pound bag can be awkward to pour from repeatedly, so you may want to transfer it to a container
2. Wagner’s Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food
Wagner’s Cardinal Blend offers a 60% black oil sunflower and 40% safflower seed mix in a convenient 6-pound bag. You’ll find it works well in platform or hopper feeders, where cardinals can perch comfortably and crack the high-oil seeds with their sturdy beaks.
The safflower naturally deters squirrels while attracting chickadees and grosbeaks alongside your cardinals. Some customers note occasional dustiness or debris, and waste reduction depends on how fresh your batch is.
For seasonal feeding, especially in winter when cardinals need dense energy sources, this blend aids their thermoregulation demands effectively.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to attract cardinals and other songbirds while naturally discouraging squirrels, especially during winter when high-energy seeds matter most.
- High-oil sunflower and safflower seeds provide dense energy for cardinals and other large songbirds
- Safflower naturally deters squirrels while still attracting desirable species like chickadees and grosbeaks
- Works well in platform and hopper feeders, giving cardinals the perching space they prefer
- Some bags arrive with dust or debris that requires cleaning before use
- Pricier than basic seed mixes, which may not fit tighter budgets
- Freshness varies by batch, and drier seed can lead to more waste under feeders
3. Wagner’s Cherry Flavored Wild Bird Food
If you’re looking for bird food options that add a little flair to your cardinal feeding preferences, this cherry-scented blend might catch your attention. The ingredient composition includes sunflower seed, millet, cracked corn, and milo—all coated in cherry oil for aroma.
While customer satisfaction runs high at 4.6 out of 5 stars, the cherry flavor appeal doesn’t dramatically alter cardinal diet choices. Still, tests show cardinal visitation rates up 39% compared to generic birdseed.
The nutritional benefits—8–12% protein and 5–7% fat—support energy needs, especially when offered in platform feeders.
Best For: Birders who want an affordable, general-purpose seed mix that attracts cardinals and other songbirds without breaking the bank.
- Attracts cardinals at rates up to 39% higher than generic mixes, with strong customer satisfaction (4.6/5 stars)
- Offers solid nutrition with 8–12% protein and 5–7% fat to support bird health and energy
- Made in the USA with quality grains and available at over 2,000 retailers nationwide
- The cherry scent can be strong and may not appeal to all users
- Can attract unwanted visitors like squirrels, chipmunks, and raccoons
- Birds tend to eat it quickly, meaning you’ll need to refill feeders more often
4. Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed Blend
When you zero in on what Northern Cardinals really need, the Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed Blend stands out for its pure, no-filler approach. Seed composition centers on black oil sunflower and safflower—two favorites that match cardinal food preferences perfectly.
At 36% fat, this mix fuels winter feeding demands when thermoregulation is critical. Consumer feedback highlights strong cardinal visitation, though squirrel deterrence varies by region.
Packaging sizes include 7-pound and 15-pound options, making it easy to match your attracting cardinals strategy to your backyard’s activity level.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to specifically attract cardinals and are willing to pay a premium for a high-fat, no-filler seed blend that also brings in chickadees, nuthatches, and grosbeaks.
- High 36% fat content provides excellent energy for cardinals, especially during winter when they need extra fuel for warmth
- Pure black oil sunflower and safflower formula with no cheap fillers means less wasted seed under your feeder
- Attracts multiple desirable species beyond just cardinals, giving you more variety at your feeding station
- Squirrels may still go for it despite the safflower’s bitter taste—results vary by location and how determined your local squirrels are
- Higher price point compared to basic store-brand mixes, which adds up if you’re feeding a lot of birds regularly
- Popular with birds means you’ll refill feeders more often, increasing both your effort and seed costs over time
5. Audubon Park Cardinal Sunflower Safflower Mix
At 8 pounds, the Audubon Park Cardinal Sunflower Safflower Mix delivers seed blend value that fits mid-sized feeding stations perfectly. Northern Cardinals will arrive more often once you switch to this no-filler formula—black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds work together to match cardinal food preferences while boosting squirrel deterrence.
Feeder compatibility spans tube, hopper, and platform styles, so you won’t need to buy new equipment. Waste reduction improves because target species consume nearly every kernel, leaving less mess under your feeders.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to attract cardinals and colorful songbirds year-round while keeping squirrels and messy filler grains out of their feeders.
- High-energy blend of black oil sunflower and safflower seeds attracts cardinals, chickadees, and finches without corn or millet filler
- Safflower naturally deters squirrels and reduces visits from pest birds like starlings and house sparrows
- Works with most feeder types—tube, hopper, platform—so you can use what you already own
- Some bags include dried berries that won’t fit through standard feeder holes, causing clogs or waste
- The 8-pound bag size may run out quickly if you have multiple feeders or heavy bird traffic
- Packaging can be tough to open and pour cleanly, leading to spills during refills
6. Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms Treat
Dried mealworms pack a protein punch that seed blends can’t match—Kaytee Wild Bird Food Mealworms Treat delivers 47% protein and 25% fat, making it ideal for attracting cardinals during nesting season when adults need insect-based nutrition for their chicks.
You can feed these dried mealworms alone in dish feeders or mix them with your existing seed to attract other wild birds like bluebirds and wrens.
Store the resealable bag in a cool, dry spot to preserve freshness. Though pricier per ounce than seed, the mealworm nutritional value justifies the cost when you’re bird feeding strategically.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to attract cardinals, bluebirds, and other insectivores during nesting season or anyone looking to add high-protein nutrition to their feeding station.
- Protein-dense formula (47% protein, 25% fat) supports breeding birds and growing nestlings better than seed alone
- Attracts a wide variety of species including cardinals, chickadees, woodpeckers, and wrens to your yard
- Resealable packaging and low moisture content (5% max) means longer shelf life and easier storage than live worms
- Higher price per ounce compared to standard birdseed blends
- Some users report an unpleasant smell from the dried worms
- Not all birds will eat dried mealworms—some species prefer live insects or may need time to recognize them as food
7. Happy Wings Cardinal Blend Bird Food
Happy Wings Cardinal Blend Bird Food combines black-oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds in a heat-treated, no-grow processing formula that stops spilled seed from sprouting under your feeders. This two-seed mix delivers around 40% fat in the sunflower component and 28–38% fat in safflower, meeting Northern Cardinals’ year-round energy demands without cheap filler grains.
The brand reputation rests on human-grade seed quality and extra-clean standards, reducing waste while maximizing nutritional value. Cardinals readily visit feeders stocked with this blend, especially when you place it near protective cover.
Best For: Backyard birders who want to attract cardinals and other songbirds with a premium, no-mess seed blend that won’t sprout weeds under feeders.
- Heat-treated seeds prevent germination, keeping your yard clean and eliminating unwanted plant growth around feeding stations
- High fat and protein content from sunflower and safflower seeds provides year-round energy for cardinals, finches, and grosbeaks
- Extra-clean, human-grade seeds processed in certified facilities reduce waste and create a healthier feeding environment
- Higher price point compared to budget seed mixes with filler grains may not suit cost-conscious buyers
- Seeds can still be scattered or spilled by birds, so it’s not completely mess-free despite the no-grow feature
- Limited to just two seed types, which may attract fewer species than broader, multi-seed blends
Choosing Feeders Cardinals Love
Cardinals won’t visit just any feeder, so choosing the right design makes all the difference. These birds need sturdy platforms and plenty of space to perch comfortably while they eat.
Here are the key features to look for when selecting feeders that cardinals will actually use.
Platform and Hopper Feeders
If you’re looking to roll out the welcome mat for cardinals, platform feeders and hopper feeders are your best bet. These designs give cardinals the stable, forward-facing perches they need to crack open black-oil sunflower seeds comfortably. Cardinals often visit feeders during dawn and dusk.
- Platform feeders mimic natural ground-feeding behavior and reduce perceived predation risk
- Hopper feeders with extended base trays keep sunflower seeds dry and fresh longer
- Placement height of 5–6 feet balances accessibility with predator deterrence
- Weather protection like angled roofs prevents seed spoilage during rain
- Feeder dimensions should accommodate multiple cardinals without crowding
Feeder Size and Sturdiness
A feeder that wobbles or tips won’t win over wary cardinals. You’ll want platform feeders or tube feeders with at least 8–10 inches across, since adult cardinals measure around 8–9 inches long and need room to turn. Sturdy materials—metal frames or heavy-duty construction—handle their 1.5-ounce weight plus several pounds of seed without sagging. Cardinal-friendly feeders rated for multi-year use resist rain, wind, and repeated landings. Cardinals are often attracted to yards that offer a reliable cardinal water source.
| Feature | Cardinal Requirement |
|---|---|
| Feeder dimensions | 8–10 inches minimum width |
| Perch stability | 4–6 inch length, 3/8 inch diameter |
| Material durability | Metal or reinforced construction |
| Load resistance | 5+ lb seed capacity |
Weather protection like roofed hoppers keeps seed dry, and load resistance of 5+ pounds ensures the structure won’t buckle when multiple birds visit at once.
Squirrel-Proof Feeder Features
Squirrels can raid a feeder faster than you can refill it, so weight activation becomes your first line of defense. When a squirrel’s 100–150 grams triggers a port closure, cardinals still feed undisturbed.
Cage designs around tube feeders block larger raiders, while locking mechanisms stop lid-lifters. Seed access stays cardinal-only.
Some backyard birders even report capsaicin-treated seed cutting squirrel visits by roughly 66%, though chemical deterrents remain optional.
Feeder Placement Near Cover
Once your feeder blocks squirrels, placement near protective cover makes all the difference. Cardinals scan from nearby branches before landing—those observation posts reduce predator risk. Position feeders about 10 feet from dense shrubs or trees; this distance balances cardinal security with predator avoidance.
Habitat simulation through strategic feeder placement encourages natural feeding behavior, turning your yard into shelter they trust.
Cardinal Food Preferences and Nutrition
Understanding what cardinals eat, and why they prefer certain foods, can make all the difference in attracting these stunning red visitors to your yard. Their strong beaks and nutritional needs drive specific feeding preferences, especially during cold winter months and the breeding season.
Here’s a closer look at the foods that fuel cardinals throughout the year.
Black-Oil Sunflower and Safflower Seeds
You can’t go wrong with black-oil sunflower seeds—they’re the best choice for Northern Cardinals, packing around 40% fat and thin shells that make cracking easy. Sunflower’s higher energy content and easier shell hardness make it the clear favorite for seasonal feeding through winter.
Safflower seeds work well too, especially in blended seed mixes, though their harder shells require more effort. Cardinals handle both, but sunflower’s higher energy content and easier shell hardness make it the clear favorite for seasonal feeding through winter.
Fruits and Berries With Large Seeds
Beyond seeds, you’ll draw cardinals with fruits that hold larger seeds—think grapes, mulberries, dogwood berries, and sumac. These large-seed options supply natural sugars for quick energy plus oils that boost winter body condition.
Planting native fruit shrubs like serviceberry, sumac, and winterberry brings seasonal fruit availability straight to your yard, while fresh grape halves on platform feeders offer nutritional fruit value cardinals readily accept.
Nuts and Suet Options
Crushed peanuts and peanut pieces pack 66% fat and 17% protein, delivering compact energy that fuels cardinals through demanding winter months. You’ll also attract them with suet cakes or suet dough, which supply high-fat nutrition when natural insects disappear.
Offer shelled, unsalted nuts on platform feeders and place suet in upright cages cardinals can grip comfortably—both supplements round out their 90% seed-based diet beautifully.
Insects for Baby Cardinals
Adult cardinals shift their diet dramatically during nesting, feeding chicks almost entirely insects rather than seeds. You’ll see parents deliver beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers, and soft-bodied larvae that supply essential protein, moisture, and micronutrients for rapid nestling development.
During nesting season, adult cardinals abandon seeds entirely and feed their chicks a diet of almost pure insects
This parental provisioning continues 25 to 56 days post-fledging. Support baby cardinal nutrition by planting native species that boost local insect populations in your yard.
Creating a Cardinal-Friendly Habitat
Cardinals won’t just show up for food—they need a landscape that feels like home. If your yard offers the right mix of shelter, nesting spots, and safe perches, these birds will stick around year-round instead of just passing through.
Here’s how to turn your outdoor space into a cardinal haven.
Planting Native Seed-Bearing Plants
Creating habitat layering design starts with native plant selection. Seed-bearing plants like black-eyed Susan and purple coneflower deliver seasonal seed availability from summer through winter, while dogwood and serviceberry trees offer berries with large seeds cardinals can crack.
These low-maintenance gardening choices support local ecosystem health, attracting insects that feed nestlings during breeding season while providing year-round seed options cardinals prefer.
Dense Shrubs for Nesting Sites
Cardinals need dense shrubs to build hidden nests and raise their young. Shrub species like hawthorn, dogwood, lilac, and wild rose create the structural complexity cardinals seek, with thorny or twiggy growth deterring predators.
You’ll notice nest density is highest where shrubs form continuous thickets rather than isolated plants. The spatial arrangement matters, too—grouping shrubs into layered clusters between 1 and 15 feet high provides ideal nesting sites throughout the seasonal characteristics of their breeding period.
Evergreen Trees for Winter Shelter
When winter weather arrives, you’ll want evergreens on your property—they’re the backbone of cardinal habitat during harsh months. Spruce and pine offer thick coverage and windbreak benefits, reducing heat loss by several degrees. Eastern red cedar provides both berries and shelter, while holly adds year-round value with dense foliage.
These evergreen roosting sites support 60% of adult cardinal survival, making them essential for keeping your backyard visitors safe and warm.
Providing Multiple Perching Surfaces
Vertical perch layering transforms a simple backyard into cardinal territory. Northern Cardinals move constantly between ground-level foraging spots and higher lookout branches, using every inch of your yard’s vertical space. To meet their needs, aim for:
- Low shrub branches within 2–3 feet of the ground for concealment and predation risk reduction
- Mid-level perches at 3–10 feet for nesting access
- Territorial display perches on exposed outer twigs for males to sing
- Safe perches near feeders for quick escapes
This structural diversity enables feeding, nesting, and territorial behavior year-round.
Providing Water for Cardinals
Cardinals need fresh, accessible water year-round, not just for drinking but for bathing too. A well-placed birdbath can be just as attractive as the best seed feeder, especially when it includes features that catch their attention.
Here are four essential considerations for providing water that keeps cardinals coming back to your yard.
Birdbaths and Moving Water Features
If you want cardinals dropping by regularly, a birdbath with running water works like a beacon—they hear and see it from afar. Moving water also doubles as mosquito control by disrupting larvae. Add stepping stones or sticks inside to create perching access at different water depth levels, helping larger birds like cardinals wade comfortably. Position your water source near shrubs for predator protection, giving wet birds quick escape cover.
| Feature | Why Cardinals Need It | Simple Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Moving water | Attracts attention, reduces mosquitoes | Add dripper or fountain |
| Shallow depth | Safe wading (1–3 inches ideal) | Place stones inside basin |
| Nearby cover | Predator protection after bathing | Position near dense shrubs |
| Stable perches | Gradual water access, drinking spots | Insert sticks or add rim ledges |
| Elevated design | Ground birdbaths invite predators | Use pedestal or hang securely |
Heated Bird Baths for Winter
When temperatures plunge below freezing, heated bird baths become lifesavers for Northern Cardinals and other winter visitors. Models with thermostat control kick on only around 35°F, keeping energy efficiency high—a 50-watt unit costs roughly 24 cents per day.
Choose sturdy plastic or concrete designs over metal for material safety, and place your birdbath near evergreens for quick cover. Cardinals need liquid winter water when natural sources ice over.
Maintaining Clean, Fresh Water Sources
Once you’ve set up heated bird baths for winter water, keeping them clean becomes your next mission. Scrub your birdbath every one to two days in warm weather—stagnant water breeds salmonella and parasites that sicken cardinals.
Use a weak bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and refresh the water source daily. Running water or a simple agitator discourages mosquitoes while keeping your backyard flock healthy year-round.
Proper Birdbath Depth for Cardinals
Clean water won’t help if your birdbath is the wrong depth. Northern Cardinals need shallow basins to bathe safely and stay healthy—aim for an ideal depth around 2 to 3 inches at the deepest point.
Here’s why proper depth matters:
- Safety concerns: Deep water increases perceived drowning risk and reduces use
- Slope importance: Gradual edges from 0.5 to 2 inches accommodate varied species
- Winter baths: Ice formation alters footing, so shallow designs with stones help
- Modifying baths: Add gravel or rocks to raise water levels in deeper basins
- Textured bottoms: Rough surfaces prevent slipping for heavier-bodied cardinals
Cardinals avoid steep-sided bowls but eagerly visit gently sloping water sources where they can wade comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I attract Cardinals?
Cardinals are drawn to yards that mirror their natural world—dense shrubs for safety, fresh water sources year-round, and feeders stocked with black-oil sunflower seeds placed near protective cover.
What do Cardinals eat in a bird feeder?
You’ll see cardinals eagerly cracking open black-oil sunflower and safflower seeds at feeders, with sunflower hearts offering easier consumption.
They also enjoy seed mixes with cracked corn, peanuts, and occasional mealworms during breeding season.
Do birds eat Cardinal seeds?
Yes, cardinals and many other backyard birds eat “cardinal seeds.” These black-oil sunflower and safflower blends attract chickadees, finches, and nuthatches too—the name’s marketing, not an exclusive menu.
What plants attract Cardinals?
You’ll attract cardinals by planting berry-producing shrubs like elderberry, seed-bearing plants such as sunflowers and coneflowers, native evergreens including juniper, and insect-hosting plants like dill that support nestlings with protein-rich caterpillars.
What is the best bird feeder for Cardinals?
Platform and hopper feeders work best because they offer sturdy perches, weather protection, and ample seed capacity.
Choose cardinal-friendly feeders with durable materials and flexible mounting options, placing them near protective cover for maximum visits.
How do you attract Cardinals to a bird feeder?
To attract cardinals to your yard, focus on feeder accessibility with sturdy platforms, seed variety including black-oil sunflower, placement matters near protective cover, and water availability year-round.
What types of feeders are best for cardinals?
Cardinals thrive when hoppers, platform feeders, and cardinal-friendly tube feeders with broad perches create stability.
Weather resistance, squirrel-proofing, and feeder height around five to six feet guarantee consistent cardinal bird feeder visits year-round.
What food sources do cardinals prefer?
Northern cardinals rely on seeds, especially black-oil sunflower and safflower, which their sturdy beaks crack easily. They also enjoy fruits with large seeds and nuts.
During the breeding season, insects provide essential protein for nestlings.
Which plants are most attractive to cardinals?
You’ll want to choose berry-producing shrubs like dogwood and viburnum, seed-producing flowers such as purple coneflower, and native trees including juniper.
Dense shrubs offer nesting material while providing seasonal benefits for cardinal habitat year-round.
What nesting habitats do cardinals look for?
When planning cardinal nesting areas, focus on dense shrub thickets between three and ten feet high.
These birds weave nesting materials into concealed spots near edges, choosing plant species like honeysuckle, dogwood, or hawthorn for prime nest concealment and protection.
Conclusion
Picture your backyard in a few weeks—a flash of crimson against fresh snow, the crack of sunflower seeds, cardinals becoming part of your daily rhythm.
That vision becomes reality when you combine the right bird food to attract cardinals with thoughtful feeder placement and native plantings. These striking birds don’t ask for much, just consistency in what you offer and patience as they learn to trust your space. The wait’s always worth it.
- https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Cardinalis_cardinalis/
- https://www.birdwatchingdaily.com/beginners/birding-faq/the-one-plant-cardinals-cant-resist/
- https://avianreport.com/food-for-backyard-birds/
- https://bioone.org/journals/the-wilson-journal-of-ornithology/volume-124/issue-4/1559-4491-124.4.808/Effects-of-Conspecifics-on-Feeder-Choice-by-Northern-Cardinals/10.1676/1559-4491-124.4.808.short
- https://www.lyricbirdfood.com/birding-hub/feeding-tips/sunflower-seed-the-shining-star-of-wild-bird-food/
