How to Feed Cardinals

Male cardinal

Cardinals are among the most popular birds at winter feeders, since they do not migrate like other songbirds. Cardinals can be selective when it come to feeders, so it important to know which type of feeder to provide if you want to attract these beautiful creatures. With the right combination of bird seed and feeder, cardinals can literally be flocking to your yard.

Things You'll Need

• Platform feeder Bird seed

Instructions

1. Select a feeder with a platform, preferably one that does not hang. Cardinals do not perch on small dowels, like other song birds can, and prefer stability while feeding. Cardinals will even feed from the ground, and are often seen feeding below the feeders.

2. Position the feeder so that it is in an undisturbed, quiet area.

3. Provide sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, cracked corn and any kind of nut meat. Any variety of sunflower that you can provide is preferred. You can provide a small bird bath filled with water, as water also attracts cardinals. To prevent freezing in the winter months, small heaters can be purchased or the birdbath can be filled regularly.

4. Make sure that the feeder is filled with feed in the morning and evening, which are the two times during the day when cardinals feed the most.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Additional resources on attracting cardinals