How to Attract Cardinals

Cardinals, or "redbirds" as they are often called, are large, sturdy birds that need a sturdy surface to feed from. They often feed on the ground, but a solid feeder filled with their favorite goodies is sure to attract them to your yard.

Things You'll Need

• fruit seeds
• peanut butter
• peanuts
• mealworms
• birdseed
• bird feeder

Instructions

1. Buy a tray or platform feeder with space enough on it for larger birds to land.

2. Fill the feeder with any of the following foods: black-oil sunflower seeds (a cardinal favorite), safflower seeds, peanut or other nut kernels, or dried fruit such as raisins or apples.

3. Use mealworms (available at most pet stores or online), especially in spring when cardinals are feeding young.

4. Consider offering seeds from fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cantaloupe or squash (including pumpkins).

Tips & Warnings

• Tube feeders don't generally work for cardinals because the birds are too large to fit comfortably on a small perch. If the tube feeder has a seed tray at the bottom, this may eliminate the problem.

• Cardinals tend to avoid feeders that are hanging or swinging. For best results, use a ground feeder or one that is set on a pole.

• A great project for kids is to make a peanut butter pinecone (see Related eHows, How to Make a Peanut Butter Pinecone). Just make sure to place the pinecone on the feeder, and don't hang it, or the cardinals will be unable to access it.