A Buffet in the Wild: Natural Food Sources
Seeds: The Staple of the Cardinal Diet
Seeds form the cornerstone of a cardinal’s diet, especially during the fall and winter months when other food sources are less abundant. They have strong beaks perfectly designed for cracking open seeds. Cardinals are particularly fond of seeds from various plants, including sunflowers, a favorite for their high-fat content and ease of access. They also enjoy seeds from weeds such as ragweed and thistle, and from native trees and shrubs. The size and type of seed preference can vary, but generally, cardinals favor larger seeds that offer a good energy-to-effort ratio. Providing these types of seeds through your bird feeders directly caters to their natural dietary needs.
Fruits and Berries: A Seasonal Delight
As seasons change, so does the availability of food. Cardinals are also fond of the bounty of fruits and berries that nature provides. During late summer and fall, when these treats are ripe, they actively seek them out. They eagerly consume berries from a variety of plants, including dogwood, serviceberry, wild cherry, and sumac. These fruits not only provide essential nutrients but also supplement the cardinal’s energy reserves, particularly important before the onset of colder weather. Creating a landscape that includes fruiting trees and shrubs can create a more welcoming habitat for cardinals.
Insects: A Protein Boost
While primarily known for their love of seeds and fruits, cardinals are not strictly vegetarians. They supplement their diet with insects, particularly during the breeding season. Protein is essential for the growth and development of young birds. Cardinals will diligently search for insects to feed their nestlings. They consume a range of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and other invertebrates. While you might not be able to directly provide insects at your feeders, creating a healthy ecosystem in your yard (avoiding excessive pesticide use, for instance) will encourage insect populations and thus, provide a natural food source for cardinals.
Buds and Flowers: Early Season Snacks
In the early spring, when the weather starts to warm and other food sources are still scarce, cardinals will turn to buds and flowers as an additional source of nutrition. This can include the buds of various trees and shrubs, which can be a critical source of food as they are high in energy, as well as the flower of many different plants.
Feeder Favorites: The Best Foods to Offer
Seeds: The Foundation of Your Feeding Program
The most effective way to attract cardinals is to provide a variety of high-quality seeds.
- Sunflower Seeds: Both black oil sunflower seeds and striped sunflower seeds are excellent choices. Black oil sunflower seeds are usually preferred by cardinals because they are easier to crack open. They are high in oil content and provide essential fats.
- Safflower Seeds: While cardinals may not flock to safflower seeds as readily as sunflower seeds, they are a good option, especially if you are looking to deter squirrels. Safflower seeds have a slightly bitter taste, which can deter squirrels, while still being palatable to cardinals.
- Nyjer Seeds: Also known as thistle seeds, Nyjer seeds are small and packed with nutrients, especially fats.
- Seed Blends: Seed blends that contain a combination of these preferred seeds can be a convenient option, catering to a wider variety of birds. However, be sure to choose blends that are high in the seeds that cardinals love. Try to avoid blends that have fillers like milo or oats, as these are often less appealing to cardinals.
Suet: A High-Energy Treat
Suet, a rendered animal fat, is a fantastic way to provide cardinals with a concentrated source of energy, especially during the colder months. It is particularly valuable in winter when natural food sources may be hard to find. Cardinals readily eat suet, and it helps them maintain their body temperature and overall health.
Different types of suet can cater to various birds. Plain suet is a good starting point. You can also find suet cakes that include ingredients like insects, nuts, and fruit. The addition of these ingredients can provide additional nutrients and attract a wider range of birds, including cardinals.
Fresh Fruit: A Sweet and Juicy Delight
Offering fresh fruit is a great way to attract cardinals, especially in the warmer months. Cardinals are attracted to the sweetness and moisture content of fruit. Cardinals will readily consume small pieces of fruit, such as grapes and melon. Remember to change the fruit frequently, especially during warm weather, to prevent spoilage and keep the feeder clean.
Strategic Feeding: Strategies for Success
Bird Feeder Types: Choose Wisely
The right type of bird feeder can make a significant difference in your success attracting cardinals.
- Hopper Feeders: These feeders offer a sheltered space to protect seeds from the weather, providing a larger amount of food and ensuring seed freshness.
- Tray Feeders: Tray feeders are also great choices, providing cardinals with a clear space to land and feed. They are easy to clean, but seeds may be more exposed to the elements.
- Tube Feeders with Large Perches: Cardinals are larger birds, and tube feeders can be more accessible with larger perches. This makes feeding easier and gives them a comfortable spot to land.
Feeder Placement: Location, Location, Location
Cardinals prefer feeding in areas that provide both easy access to food and nearby shelter. Place your feeders close to dense shrubs, trees, or other forms of cover. This allows cardinals to quickly retreat from potential predators.
Feeding Schedule: Consistency is Key
Regular and consistent feeding is important. Fill your feeders regularly, especially during the winter months when natural food sources are scarce. During periods of extreme weather, consider filling your feeders more frequently, as birds will require more energy to stay warm.
Water Sources: A Vital Necessity
Always ensure there is a clean water source available. Cardinals, like all birds, need water for drinking and bathing. A birdbath is a great addition to your backyard. Keep it clean, and replace the water regularly. In the winter, you may need to use a birdbath heater to prevent the water from freezing.
Avoiding Problems: Maintaining a Healthy Environment
Attracting birds to your backyard comes with the responsibility of keeping it healthy.
- Squirrel and Rodent Control: Squirrels and other rodents can quickly consume the food in your feeders. Use squirrel-proof feeders or feeders with baffles.
- Seed Spoilage and Hygiene: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent mold and the spread of disease. Discard any wet or spoiled seed.
- Disease Prevention: Cardinals are susceptible to avian diseases.
Beyond the Bird Feeder: Additional Cardinal-Friendly Touches
While bird feeders are a crucial element, there are other ways to create a welcoming habitat.
Planting Native Plants: A Natural Bounty
Supplementing your feeding program with native plants that offer natural food and shelter can make a big difference. Native plants provide many benefits. They provide a continuous supply of seeds, fruits, and berries throughout the year. They are also well-suited to your local climate.
Providing Cover and Shelter: Safety First
Cardinals need cover to feel safe. Provide dense shrubs, trees, or brush piles near your feeding area. They can be a crucial retreat from predators and the elements. The thicker the cover, the more comfortable cardinals will feel.
