Feeder & Bird Food for Cardinals

The northern cardinal is the state bird of Virginia and West Virginia.

Cardinals are medium-sized songbirds native to the eastern United States. Males are bright red with black masks around the faces, while females are slightly smaller and grayish-brown in color, with red bills. Cardinals visit bird feeders if they contain foods that they enjoy.

Feeders

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension recommends using hopper feeders, also known as self- or bin-feeders, for cardinals. Hopper feeders have a reservoir that dispenses birdseed onto a tray. They do not need to be refilled as often as some other types of feeders, and the food stays drier during inclement weather. Tube feeders are a way to keep blue jays and grackles from stealing seeds; they have short perches that make it difficult for large birds to feed.

Bird Food

Black-oil sunflower seeds or sunflower kernels are a high-energy food for cardinals. Cardinals also enjoy peanuts and peanut kernels, white proso millet and cracked corn. Many birdseed mixes that are commercially available attract cardinals. Cardinals also enjoy baked goods such as cookies, doughnuts and crackers, as well as dried fruit.

Considerations

Place cardinal feeders in an area where they are protected from predators. Placing feeders near shrubs or fences provides a windbreak and helps birds to stay warmer during the winter. Clean bird feeders regularly to prevent mold and disease. Regularly raking up and removing fallen seeds and shells reduces lawn damage. Cardinals also benefit from a nearby source of water such as a birdbath.

References

• Cornell University: Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)
• West Virginia University Extension Service: Your Winter Birds - Who They Are, and What to Feed Them
• The University of Maine Cooperative Extension: Bird Feeding Basics