Understanding the Cardinal’s Natural Diet
The flash of crimson, the cheerful song echoing through the trees – the northern cardinal is a welcome sight in any backyard. Their vibrant plumage and melodic calls make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. Attracting these magnificent creatures to your home can be a rewarding experience, offering a chance to witness their beauty and observe their fascinating behaviors. But how do you entice these stunning birds to visit your yard? The key lies in understanding their dietary needs and providing them with the right sustenance. This guide delves into the world of cardinal cuisine, offering insights into what food do cardinals like, how to offer it, and how to create a cardinal-friendly haven.
Before we delve into the best food options for your backyard feeders, it’s crucial to understand what cardinals naturally consume in the wild. This knowledge will help you mimic their natural food sources and make your offerings more appealing. Cardinals, like many songbirds, are opportunistic feeders, adapting their diet to what’s readily available and to the demands of the season.
Seeds and grains are a cornerstone of their diet. They have strong beaks perfectly adapted for cracking open seeds, making them efficient consumers of sunflower seeds, a particular favorite. They also enjoy other grains, like cracked corn and oats, though these may attract a broader range of bird species. Thistle seeds, often referred to as nyjer seeds, are another source of nutrition that cardinals are known to enjoy.
Beyond seeds, cardinals relish berries and fruits. During the warmer months, they’ll eagerly feast on berries from various native plants. Mulberries, dogwood berries, serviceberries, and wild grapes are just a few examples of the fruits that can draw cardinals to your property. These offerings provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, bolstering their overall health.
During the breeding season, when the need for protein is at its highest, cardinals incorporate insects into their diet. Caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and other insects become a primary food source as they fuel the growth and development of their nestlings. This demonstrates the importance of maintaining a healthy, insect-rich environment to support a thriving cardinal population. The presence of insects is a significant factor in keeping them coming back.
The seasonal changes significantly impact their food choices. During spring and summer, insects, fresh fruits, and developing seeds are plentiful. In autumn, they focus on ripe fruits and the seeds that have reached maturity. As winter approaches, and food sources dwindle, seeds and high-energy foods become particularly important to help them survive the cold.
Providing the Best Feeder Fare
Now that you know what cardinals naturally consume, let’s explore the best foods to offer at your backyard feeders to attract them. The objective is to replicate their natural preferences and to offer a range of choices to suit their changing needs.
Black oil sunflower seeds stand out as one of the very best options. These seeds are relatively easy to crack, provide a good source of healthy fats and protein, and appeal to a wide variety of birds, cardinals included. Their high oil content also provides abundant energy, which is especially vital during the cold months. They are a staple for a reason and are a must-have for cardinal attracting.
Sunflower hearts, also known as sunflower chips, offer another great choice. These are the de-hulled seeds, meaning the shells have been removed. This makes it easier for the birds to eat, reducing the amount of waste and mess. They are just as nutritious as black oil sunflower seeds and can be an excellent alternative.
Safflower seeds can be another beneficial option. While not universally loved by every cardinal, many cardinals are attracted to them, and because these seeds are less appealing to squirrels and sometimes other common feeder visitors, they can be a good choice to reduce competition at your feeders. They may require some time for the birds to grow accustomed to them, but patience can pay off.
Cracked corn is another food you can offer, but it should not be your primary offering. It can attract a wide variety of birds, including less desirable species like house sparrows. It is a cheaper option, however, and can be used to supplement other seed offerings.
In addition to seed offerings, consider adding suet to your feeder options. Suet is a high-energy, fat-rich food that provides vital nutrients, especially during colder months. It is made from animal fat and can often contain seeds, grains, and sometimes even insects. Suet is an excellent way to supplement their diet with extra energy during harsh weather.
Mealworms, both live and dried, are another delicious treat for cardinals. These provide a significant protein boost, especially during breeding season. Cardinals often enjoy live mealworms, but dried mealworms are also a viable option and can be easier to maintain. Providing protein-rich food will give the birds an important edge.
Fruit is a fantastic addition to a cardinal’s diet. Cut apples, oranges, and berries can provide essential vitamins and nutrients. Slice the fruit into bite-sized pieces, and place it on a platform feeder or skewer. Cardinals might not come immediately, but they can eventually discover these new food sources if they are readily accessible.
Finally, providing a clean water source is as important as providing food. Water is essential for drinking and bathing. A birdbath with a shallow dish is ideal, but any source of clean water can work. The closer you place the water source to their feeders, the easier it is for them to find.
Strategic Placement and Feeder Choices
Choosing the right feeders and strategically placing them is essential for attracting cardinals. There are several types of feeders that can cater to cardinal preferences.
Tube feeders are a common choice for offering sunflower seeds. Choose a tube feeder with large perches that will allow cardinals, which are relatively large birds, to perch comfortably. Look for feeders with openings that are appropriately sized to prevent seed spillage and prevent unwanted birds from entering.
Platform feeders offer a versatile option, as they can accommodate various foods, including seeds, fruit, and mealworms. Cardinals will feel secure using a platform feeder that is positioned near cover.
Hopper feeders are another excellent option, especially for larger quantities of seed. They have a covered compartment that dispenses food as the birds eat. This design helps keep the seeds dry and protected from the elements.
Suet feeders are specifically designed to hold suet cakes. These are essential for offering suet, especially during cold weather. Place the suet feeder where cardinals can easily access it.
The location of your feeders is also important. Cardinals prefer feeders that are placed near cover, such as shrubs, trees, or bushes. This provides them with a sense of security and protection from predators. Consider the natural cover in your yard when you decide on your feeder placement.
Try to place feeders away from windows to reduce the risk of bird collisions. This is a simple yet important safety precaution.
Essential Tips for Cardinal Attraction
Beyond food and feeders, there are several additional tips that can significantly boost your chances of attracting cardinals.
Maintaining a clean water source is crucial, as previously mentioned. A shallow birdbath or fountain is ideal for drinking and bathing. Keep the water clean and fresh by replacing it regularly. The more welcoming your environment is, the better.
Patience is a virtue. It can take time for cardinals to discover your feeders, particularly if they are new to the area. Be patient and consistent with your offerings, and don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.
Consider planting native plants in your yard. Native plants provide natural food sources, attracting insects and producing berries that cardinals will enjoy. Native plants can help create a more sustainable and attractive environment for them.
Feeder hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of disease. Clean your feeders regularly with soap and water to remove mold, mildew, and bacteria. It is important to make sure they are maintained well.
Things to Avoid for Cardinal Wellbeing
While there are plenty of ways to make your yard cardinal-friendly, there are a few things that you should avoid to help the birds thrive.
Avoid offering salted nuts and processed foods, as these can be harmful to their health. Also, avoid foods with artificial additives, as these offer little nutritional value.
Limiting foods that attract unwanted pests, such as squirrels and rats, is also recommended. Overfeeding certain foods, such as bread, can attract unwanted guests.
Conclusion: Welcoming Cardinals to Your Backyard
The ability to observe these brilliant birds in your backyard can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By understanding what food do cardinals like, you can create a welcoming environment and enjoy their presence.
Remember to provide a diverse selection of food options, including black oil sunflower seeds, suet, and mealworms. Position your feeders near cover and provide a clean water source. Be patient, and persistent.
By following these tips, you can greatly increase your chances of attracting these beautiful birds and watching their remarkable behavior. So, prepare your feeders, and anticipate the arrival of the red-winged visitors that will brighten your day. The vibrant flash of crimson will make all your efforts worthwhile. Start today, and welcome the cardinals to your yard.
