The Best Cardinal Bird Feeders and Birdseed
Updated: May 14, 2021Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.
Cardinals are beloved backyard birds. To attract more redbirds, fill these cardinal bird feeders with their favorite types of birdseed.
It’s hard to miss a male Northern cardinal and his bold red feathers, black face mask and spiked crest. Although the female is more subdued, she is no less adored. Despite being fairly common, the birds can be a bit elusive. Cardinals often come to feeders as the sun is setting, when their red feathers are muted under low light conditions. Here’s how to choose the best cardinal bird feeders, birdseed and habitat.
Best Cardinal Bird Feeders
Triple Tube Feeder
Begin with a tube feeder to welcome cardinals, finches, chickadees and titmice almost immediately. Those species seem to recognize the shape of the feeder, and their presence attracts other birds. Set out this Perky-Pet Triple Tube bird feeder (above) to provide multiple birds a spot to perch and eat.
Learn how to get rid of grackles and blackbirds at bird feeders.
Metal Tube Feeder
The Woodlink Audubon metal tube feeder is another good choice for cardinals and other backyard birds like finches and chickadees.
Check out the 10 types of bird feeders you need in your backyard.
Red Cardinal Feeder
Or try this circular mesh Red Cardinal Feeder (above), which holds 2.5 pounds of sunflower seed!
Psst—don’t miss the best finch feeders to serve thistle seed.
Platform Bird Feeder
Cardinals also like to eat from platform or tray feeders. Try the Woodlink 3 in 1 Platform Bird Feeder, which you can hang or mount to a pole.
Follow these top tips to attract birds to your feeders.
Squirrel-Be-Gone Feeder
If squirrels are an issue, try this Squirrel-Be-Gone Country House feeder with a weight-sensitive perch. It even has a cute redbird perched on top of the feeder!
Check out the best squirrel-proof bird feeders and 12 tips that work.
Best Birdseed for Cardinals
“I’ll sprinkle seeds directly on the ground or the sidewalk to give cardinals easy access to a meal,” says Mike Havlik, a naturalist for the Dallas County Conservation Board in central Iowa.
At feeders, cardinals prefer to eat sunflower seeds and safflower seeds and often roasted, unsalted peanuts. Seeds and nuts are no match for their hefty pink beaks. Cracked corn is worth setting out, too. “I recommend safflower seed because the squirrels leave it alone, but cardinals, woodpeckers, chickadees, titmice and grosbeaks love it,” says Susan Perry of Edgewater, Florida. Here’s even more proven ways to attract cardinals.
Habitat for Cardinals
Northern cardinals are abundant in the East, Midwest and Southwest. These birds thrive in towns and suburbs and generally stay in the same area. This helps get a jump-start on nesting, with some laying eggs by February. This long breeding season allows for multiple broods each year and ensures the survival of at least a few offspring. Do cardinals mate for life?
Cardinals aren’t too particular when it comes to nest location, and this generalist approach makes them susceptible to predation. Thick cover provides good habitat for cardinals throughout the seasons. Hedgerows, shrubby stands, overgrown fields and forest edges all make suitable winter roosts. Learn more interesting facts about cardinals.
