Best Bird Feeders for Cardinals
Cardinals are among the most beloved and popular birds in North America. Attracting these birds to your yard can bring a burst of color and a sense of joy, especially during the winter months when many other birds have migrated south. In this guide, we’ll review the best bird feeders for cardinals, breaking down the pros and cons of each type. With clear, unbiased insights and price comparisons, we aim to help you make an informed and confident purchasing decision.
Part 1. Best Feeders for Cardinals
Choosing the right bird feeder is key to successfully attracting cardinals to your yard. These birds have unique feeding habits and preferences, so not all feeders are equally effective. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the most common types of bird feeders that work well for cardinals, with their pros, cons, and price.
Birdfy Smart Bird Feeders
Birdfy is a leading brand in smart bird feeding, known for its high-quality bird feeder cameras that allow bird lovers to watch and identify their backyard visitors in real time.
The Birdfy product line includes several smart bird feeders, ranging from AI-powered models to eco-friendly bamboo feeders and hummingbird-specific designs. Each is equipped with an HD camera and offers unique features tailored to different birding needs.
- Spacious Tray Design: Equipped with a wide and stable tray, Birdfy feeders make it easy for cardinals to land and feed comfortably.
- AI Bird Recognition: Instantly identifies bird species and notifies you when a cardinal visits your feeder.
- HD Camera, Day or Night: Captures clear, vivid footage of cardinals, whether it's bright daylight or after sunset.
- Generous Seed Storage: With a 1.5-liter seed chamber, there's no need to refill frequently—perfect for daily cardinal visits.
- Observe Without Disturbing: Watch birds from your phone without scaring them away.
- Slightly more expensive than regular bird feeders.
Tray Bird Feeders
Tray Bird Feeders, also known as platform feeders, are among the most traditional and widely used bird feeders. They feature a flat, open surface for placing seeds, making them easy to use and ideal for birds like cardinals that need a stable place to perch.
- Spacious and Stable Feeding Surface.
- Cardinals can safely land and feed thanks to the wide, open design.
- Easy to Refill.
- Seeds can be quickly placed or refilled without hassle.
- Lack of Weather Protection. Seeds are fully exposed to rain, snow, and wind, which can cause spoilage.
- The open structure makes it easy for unwanted visitors like squirrels and aggressive bird species to access the food.
Hopper Bird Feeders
Hopper bird feeders, also known as silo-style or house-style feeders, feature a central seed reservoir that dispenses food into a tray at the bottom. Most sides of the feeder are enclosed, helping protect seeds from wind and rain while allowing multiple birds to feed at once.
For cardinal enthusiasts who want a low-maintenance option without frequent refilling, hopper feeders can be an excellent choice. Just be sure to select a model with wide, sturdy perching areas to give cardinals a comfortable and stable place to feed.
- The enclosed design keeps seeds dry and fresh for longer.
- Hopper feeders typically offer large seed capacity, reducing the need for constant refills.
- Perching areas may be too narrow for medium-sized birds like cardinals, making it harder for them to feed comfortably.
- The enclosed structure can be more difficult to clean, especially if seed debris accumulates inside the hopper.
Tube Bird Feeders
Are you thinking of choosing a tube bird feeder for cardinals? While tube bird feeders are popular and space-saving, not all models are well-suited for cardinals. As medium-sized birds, cardinals prefer open, stable perching areas, something standard tube feeders often lack. These feeders are typically better suited for smaller songbirds.
If you still prefer the look and structure of a tube feeder, consider choosing one with an attached tray or perch extensions to make it easier for cardinals to land and feed.
- Small feeding ports reduce spillage and help keep food from being taken by larger pests.
- Feeding port size and perch spacing can reduce competition and promote peaceful feeding.
- Many standard tube feeders lack the wide, stable perching space that cardinals need.
Part 2. How to Use Bird Feeders to Attract Cardinals
Now that you’ve seen the pros and cons, you likely have a good sense of which feeder suits your needs. But picking the right feeder is just the beginning; using it the right way is what truly brings cardinals to your yard.
Place the feeder in an ideal location
Cardinals are somewhat cautious and prefer safe, quiet areas. Place your feeder:
- Near Cover: Place it close to trees or shrubs where cardinals can quickly retreat if they get threatened. They also like to perch and observe before feeding.
- At Eye Level: Position the feeder about 5-6 feet off the ground, making it easily accessible but safe from predators.
- Sheltered Spot: Choose a place that is shielded from strong winds and harsh weather to keep the food dry and the birds comfortable.
Providing the Right Food
Cardinals have specific bird seed preferences. Fill your feeder with:
- Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: These are high in fat and easy for cardinals to crack open.
- Safflower Seeds : Cardinals love these seeds, and they are less appealing to squirrels and other unwanted birds.
- Cracked Corn: This can be mixed in to add variety.
Maintain and clean the feeder regularly
Cardinals are known to be early risers. They are most active at feeders during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the daylight hours as well. Consistent care helps cardinals keep coming back:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the feeder at least once a week with a mild soap solution to prevent mold and disease.
- Fresh Food Supply: Refill the feeder regularly to ensure there's always food available. Stale or moldy seeds should be discarded.
- Ground Maintenance: Clean up fallen seeds and shells to prevent attracting pests and to keep the area tidy.
Create a cardinal-friendly environment in your backyard
We should make full use of our yard to invite more cardinals:
- Water Source: Provide a birdbath or a shallow water dish. Cardinals are attracted to water for drinking and bathing.
- Native Plants: Plant shrubs and trees that produce berries, like dogwood, serviceberry, and mulberry. These provide natural food sources and shelter.
- Safe Space: Avoid using chemicals and pesticides in your yard. Keep cats and other pets away from the feeding area to create a safe environment.
Watch cardinals from a distance to avoid disturbing them
- Be Patient: It may take some time for cardinals to discover your feeder. Be patient and maintain your feeder regularly.
- Quiet Observation: Watch quietly from a distance. Cardinals are more likely to visit if they feel undisturbed.
Summary
By understanding the strengths and limitations of different feeder types and using them thoughtfully, you can create a more inviting space for cardinals in your backyard. Birdfy Smart feeders offer an added layer of convenience and observation, helping bird enthusiasts enjoy their hobby with greater ease and insight.
