The Best Bird Food for Cardinals: Top Picks of 2024

Last update on 2024-10-10  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Wondering what the fuss is about the best bird food for cardinals? 

Join us on a journey into the culinary world of these feathered friends—where safflower, sunflower, and DIY delights take center stage. 

Get ready to transform your backyard into a cardinal haven!

Top 5 Best Bird Food For Cardinals Compared:

Here’s the top 5 options for the Best Bird Food For Cardinals:

1. Gourmet Wild Bird Food Mix (6 LBS) Blend for Cardinals 

Last update on 2024-10-10  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

From a user’s perspective, Schoen Farms’ bird food elevates your backyard birding experience. Expertly crafted on a family farm, this mix reflects Schoen Farms’ commitment to quality and freshness. 

Evidence lies in the diverse visitors—cardinals, finches, blue jays—drawn to this gourmet feast.

Pros:

  • Nutrient-rich blend
  • Attracts diverse bird species
  • Versatile feeding options

Cons:

  • Package size may be large for some users

Specifications:

  • Weight: 6 LBS
  • Ingredients: Sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, red millet, cracked corn, wheat

2. Desert Valley Premium in-Shell Peanuts

Last update on 2024-10-11  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Transform your backyard into a lively haven for cardinals with Desert Valley’s In-Shell Peanuts. It’s not just bird food; it’s a magnet for vibrant wildlife, from chirping cardinals to playful chipmunks.

Pros:

  • Resealable bags for freshness
  • Appeals to diverse wildlife
  • High-protein and high-fat content

Cons:

  • May attract larger wildlife like deer

Specifications:

  • Weight: 5 Pounds
  • Packaging: Resealable bag
  • Origin: Grown and packaged in the USA

3. Lyric Supreme Wild Bird Seed

Last update on 2024-10-10  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Calling all cardinal enthusiasts! Lyric Supreme Wild Bird Seed transforms your backyard into a bird haven. Picture cardinals, woodpeckers, and finches flocking to feast on this diverse 12-ingredient blend.

Pros:

  • Diverse 12-ingredient blend
  • Over 50% sunflower seeds and nuts
  • Appeals to a wide variety of birds

Cons:

  • None noted

Specifications:

  • Weight: 40 lbs
  • Ingredients: 7 seeds, 3 varieties of nuts, sunflower kernels, cracked corn
  • Usage: Suitable for a variety of bird feeders

4. Cole’s Wild Bird Products

Last update on 2024-10-10  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Calling all cardinal enthusiasts! Cole’s SA10 Safflower Birdseed is your secret weapon against unwanted guests like squirrels. Imagine cardinals, nuthatches, titmice, and chickadees gathering for a feast while squirrels turn up their noses.

Pros:

  • Safflower attracts cardinals, nuthatches, titmice, and chickadees
  • Discourages squirrels and blackbirds
  • Diverse mix with quality ingredients

Cons:

  • None noted

Specifications:

  • Weight: 10 lbs
  • Ingredients: Safflower seed, black oil sunflower, sunflower meats, raw peanuts, pecans
  • Usage: Ideal for attracting specific bird species

5. Wild Delight 099127 Bugs N’ Berries Wild Bird Food, 4.5 Lb

Last update on 2024-10-10  / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Embark on a cardinal spectacle with Wild Delight’s Bugs N’ Berries Bird Food. Picture cardinals, finches, and woodpeckers flocking to your yard for this premium mix of sunflower kernels, safflower seeds, and dried fruits.

Pros:

  • Premium blend with natural ingredients
  • Nutrient-rich, addressing deficiencies
  • Real fruit attracts a variety of birds

Cons:

  • None noted

Specifications:

  • Weight: 4.5 lbs
  • Ingredients: Sunflower kernels, safflower seed, dried fruits, and insects
  • No fillers: No millet, no milo, no corn

Best Bird Food for Cardinals: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you eager to transform your backyard into a cardinal haven? The journey begins with understanding the essentials of attracting and caring for these vibrant birds. 

Let’s delve into the world of the “best bird food for cardinals” and unravel the secrets to creating a welcoming environment for these feathered friends.

Tips to Attract Cardinals

Cardinals are discerning birds, and a cardinal-friendly backyard requires thoughtful planning. Start by strategically incorporating elements that appeal to their preferences.

Choose the Right Food

When it comes to cardinals, the right food is crucial. Opt for a premium mix that includes sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and nuts. These ingredients are cardinal favorites, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Use Proper Feeders

Invest in feeders designed for cardinals. These should have wide platforms, allowing these ground-feeding birds to comfortably access their favorite seeds. Cardinals prefer open spaces, so avoid enclosed feeders.

Consider Food Placement

Cardinals are cautious creatures. Place feeders in open areas with a clear line of sight, reducing the risk of surprise attacks from predators. A cardinal-friendly setup ensures these birds feel secure while dining.

Provide Water Sources

Cardinals, like many birds, appreciate a refreshing drink. Incorporate bird baths or shallow dishes to serve as water sources. This not only hydrates them but also enhances the overall appeal of your backyard.

Prevent Frozen Water

Winter can be tough on cardinals. Ensure your water sources remain ice-free during colder months. Consider using heated bird baths to provide a comfortable environment, attracting cardinals even in chilly weather.

Offer Protective Shelter

Cardinals seek safety in their surroundings. Planting dense shrubs or providing birdhouses can offer protective shelter. These become essential retreats during harsh weather or when predators are nearby.

Encourage Nesting Sites

Create a cardinal-friendly environment by offering suitable nesting sites. Plant trees or shrubs that provide ample coverage and a safe haven for building nests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the preferred food for cardinals?

Cardinals prefer a diet rich in sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and nuts. These provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet, making them cardinal favorites.

What is the best bird seed for cardinals and bluejays?

A blend of sunflower seeds and safflower seeds works best for cardinals and bluejays. The mix caters to their distinct preferences, ensuring a diverse and appealing feeding experience.

What color bird feeder attracts cardinals?

Cardinals are drawn to bright and bold colors. Red, in particular, is a favorite. Opt for a red bird feeder to catch their attention and make your backyard more inviting for these vibrant birds.

How do cardinals eat sunflower seeds?

Cardinals crack open sunflower seeds with their strong beaks. They hold the seed with their feet and use their beak to break the shell, allowing them to access the nutritious kernel inside.

Final Thoughts About Choosing Best Bird Food For Cardinals

In conclusion, crafting the perfect environment for cardinals involves thoughtful choices and a genuine understanding of their needs. 

The “best bird food for cardinals” extends beyond mere seeds—it’s about creating a haven that addresses their dietary, safety, and nesting requirements. 

Implement these tips, and soon your backyard will echo with the delightful chirps of cardinals, transforming it into a haven for both birds and bird enthusiasts.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.