12 Best Bird Houses for Cardinals in 2026

If you’ve ever tried to attract cardinals to your backyard, you know it’s not always easy to find the right bird house that suits their needs. Many people struggle with choosing a home that’s both safe and inviting for these beautiful birds.

You want something durable, weather-resistant, and perfectly sized to keep cardinals comfortable and protected from predators. But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about which bird house will truly make a difference.

You’re not alone in this! Finding a bird house that combines practicality with charm is a common challenge for bird lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, having the right bird house can make all the difference in attracting cardinals and enhancing your garden’s appeal.

You’ll find the 12 best bird houses for cardinals in 2026 crafted from durable, weather-resistant natural wood with cozy interiors and entrance holes sized perfectly for them. Many feature easy-clean doors, ventilation, and safe hanging options to keep your feathered friends comfortable and protected from predators.

Designs range from classic rustic to multi-chambered homes with feeders. These choices not only attract cardinals but also boost your garden’s charm.

Explore more to pick the perfect fit for your backyard.

Image	Name	Editor's Rating	Price
	STARSWR Bird House for Outside,Bird Hous...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 5 out of 5	Check Price
	NATUREYLWL Wood Bird Houses for Outside ...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 5 out of 5	Check Price
	STARSWR Bird Houses for Outside,Outdoor ...	★★★★★ ★★★★★ 4.5 out of 5	Check Price

STARSWR Natural Wooden Outdoor Bird House

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Discover how the STARSWR Natural Wooden Outdoor Bird House can transform your garden into a welcoming haven for small birds. Its handcrafted natural wood construction offers a sturdy and weather-resistant home that stands up to the elements. This birdhouse’s design solves common issues like poor ventilation and cramped space, providing comfort for feathered visitors.

The unique drop shape with a wide bottom gives ample room inside, while the 1.57-inch entrance and platform create a perfect perch for birds like cardinals and finches. A rear ventilation door ensures proper airflow, preventing moisture buildup and making cleaning quick and simple. This thoughtful feature helps maintain a healthy environment for birds throughout the seasons.

Lightweight and easy to hang using the included strong hemp rope, the birdhouse offers protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. However, its entrance size limits the types of birds that can use it, and natural wood may require occasional maintenance to keep its appearance fresh over time.

Best for: Garden bird enthusiasts seeking a durable, natural, and easy-to-maintain outdoor birdhouse designed for small bird species.

What We Like:

• Sturdy, handcrafted natural wood construction ensures durability and safety.
• Spacious drop shape with a 1.57-inch entrance and platform for comfortable perching.
• Rear ventilation door improves airflow and simplifies cleaning.
• Lightweight design with strong hemp rope for easy hanging.
• Provides reliable protection against predators and weather.

Specification:

Wooden Bird Houses for Outdoors with Pole

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• DIMENSIONS -5.9" x 5.9" x 8.6" Hanging wooden birdhouses water...

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Create a welcoming space for small birds in your garden with these wooden bird houses designed for outdoor use on poles. They provide a safe, natural habitat that encourages cardinals, finches, and bluebirds to nest close to your home. This thoughtful design helps you support local wildlife while enjoying their lively presence.

The houses are crafted from premium natural wood, offering durability and weather resistance. Their compact size, featuring a 1.57-inch entrance hole and a convenient perch, caters specifically to smaller bird species. This design not only attracts birds but also supports their feeding and protective behaviors.

Maintenance is straightforward thanks to a side door that allows easy cleaning. This feature ensures the birdhouse remains hygienic and inviting season after season. Whether hung on a tree branch or mounted on a pole, these birdhouses blend seamlessly into garden settings.

While ideal for small birds, the size limits larger species from using them. Installing the house requires a sturdy branch or pole, and occasional wood treatment may be needed to maintain its condition over time.

Best for: Gardeners and bird lovers seeking a durable, easy-to-maintain wooden birdhouse that attracts small outdoor birds.

What We Like:

• Weatherproof natural wood construction ensures long-lasting outdoor use
• 1.57-inch entrance hole and perch designed for small birds’ feeding and nesting
• Side door allows effortless cleaning and upkeep
• Versatile installation options: hang on branches or mount on poles

Specification:

STARSWR Outdoor 3-Hole Wooden Birdhouse for Garden

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Bring multiple small bird families to your garden with the STARSWR Outdoor 3-Hole Wooden Birdhouse. Its three separate entrances allow several birds like cardinals to nest at the same time, creating a lively and inviting environment. This design helps you support local wildlife more effectively than single-entry birdhouses.

Made from durable wood with a weather-resistant finish, this birdhouse stands up to wind, rain, and snow. It ensures longevity and protects your feathered visitors from harsh outdoor conditions, so you can enjoy watching birds year-round. The 1.57-inch entrance holes keep larger, unwanted birds out, providing a safer space.

Maintenance is simple with a back door for easy cleaning and ventilation. Each entrance also includes a small platform for perching, enhancing comfort for the birds. You can hang the birdhouse with strong hemp ropes or place it on a flat surface, offering flexible installation options to suit your garden setup.

Best for: Gardeners and bird lovers who want an easy-to-maintain, multi-family birdhouse that supports small bird species in various outdoor environments.

What We Like:

• Three entrances encourage multiple nesting families simultaneously
• Durable wood with weatherproof finish resists outdoor elements
• Easy-to-clean back door and ventilation system
• Perch platforms enhance bird comfort
• Flexible hanging or placement options

Specification:

Cedar Wood Birdhouse Nesting Box with Feeder Kit

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• DIY Birdhouse Birdfeeder Kit. Enjoy STEM Project for the youngth

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Enhance your backyard with the Cedar Wood Birdhouse Nesting Box with Feeder Kit, designed to attract cardinals and other common birds. This birdhouse solves the challenge of providing a safe, spacious nesting area while also offering a convenient feeding spot. Its combination of nesting and feeding features supports the natural habits of backyard birds, encouraging them to stay longer.

Made from weatherproof premium cedar, this birdhouse withstands outdoor conditions without frequent maintenance. The natural cedar material is durable and resistant to rot, ensuring your birdhouse remains a functional habitat season after season. The included stainless steel cable wire makes hanging quick and secure, so you can place it wherever birds visit most.

This kit also includes a cedar suet cake feeder, adding an extra food source that attracts a variety of bird species. Its size is compact enough to fit most garden spaces while providing ample room for small birds to nest comfortably. Assembly is required, offering an engaging DIY experience that also supports STEM education.

While the birdhouse is ideal for smaller species, larger birds may find it less accommodating. Additionally, users who prefer ready-to-use products might find the assembly and optional painting a minor drawback. Overall, this kit balances functionality and educational value for bird lovers.

Best for: Garden enthusiasts and bird lovers seeking a durable, multifunctional birdhouse and feeder kit that supports small backyard birds and STEM learning.

What We Like:

• Durable, weatherproof cedar construction for lasting outdoor use
• Combines spacious nesting area with built-in suet feeder
• Easy and secure hanging with included stainless steel cable
• Supports educational and DIY projects with assembly required

Specification:

2 Pack Wooden Outdoor Hanging Birdhouses Set

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Attract charming cardinals and other cavity-nesting birds with the 2 Pack Wooden Outdoor Hanging Birdhouses Set. Designed to provide safe, cozy nesting spaces, these birdhouses enhance your garden’s natural appeal while inviting feathered visitors. Their sturdy construction ensures they hold up well against outdoor conditions.

Made from weather-resistant wood, the birdhouses are built to endure rain, wind, and sun exposure. This durability means you spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying the birds. The classic rustic design fits seamlessly into various outdoor settings, making it a natural addition to your garden or patio.

Each birdhouse hangs securely with included ropes, giving you flexibility in placement. Whether you want to hang them from trees, poles, or eaves, setting up is quick and easy. Their size accommodates small cavity-nesting birds like bluebirds and finches, offering them a comfortable home.

Regularly check the hanging ropes for wear due to weather exposure to ensure continued safety. While perfect for small birds, these houses are not suitable for larger species. Overall, this set offers a reliable, attractive solution for nurturing local bird populations.

Best for: Gardeners and bird enthusiasts seeking durable, easy-to-maintain birdhouses that attract small cavity-nesting birds like cardinals and finches.

What We Like:

• Weather-resistant wood ensures long-lasting outdoor use
• Classic rustic design blends naturally into garden environments
• Flexible hanging options with included ropes for versatile placement
• Sized to comfortably house small cavity-nesting birds
• Low maintenance with easy inspection and upkeep

Specification:

Large Wooden Hanging Bird Houses for Outdoors

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Discover a charming way to invite nature into your garden with the Large Wooden Hanging Bird Houses for Outdoors. This spacious birdhouse is designed to provide a safe and comfortable nesting space for multiple bird families at once. Its natural wood construction, combined with a weather-resistant resin coating, ensures long-lasting durability even through harsh outdoor conditions.

The birdhouse features six independent chambers, each equipped with ventilation holes and perches. These thoughtful details enhance airflow and comfort, attracting species like Wrens, Bluebirds, and Tree Swallows. Measuring 10 x 9.2 x 7.1 inches, it offers ample room for birds to nest and thrive.

Maintenance is simple thanks to its sturdy build and weatherproof finish. You can hang it securely from robust branches or place it on flat surfaces for easy birdwatching. Its castle-shaped design adds a rustic charm, creating a delightful focal point in your garden.

While the large size may require careful placement, it effectively supports multiple birds simultaneously. The entrance hole is ideal for small to medium birds but may not suit larger species. This birdhouse combines functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor space.

Best for: Garden enthusiasts and bird watchers seeking a durable, decorative birdhouse that accommodates several bird families at once.

What We Like:

• Durable natural wood with weather-resistant resin coating
• Six separate chambers with ventilation and perches for comfort
• Attractive castle-shaped design enhancing garden aesthetics
• Easy to hang or place on flat surfaces for versatile use
• Lightweight yet sturdy for year-round outdoor use

Specification:

Wood-Look Resin Bird House with Hanging Chain

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Bring nature closer to your garden with the Wood-Look Resin Bird House with Hanging Chain. This birdhouse offers a weather-resistant solution that stands up to sun, rain, and wind. Its resin material mimics real wood, giving you the look of a classic birdhouse without the worry of fading or rust.

Designed specifically for small birds like bluebirds and sparrows, it features a 1.5-inch entrance hole that provides a safe, snug space. The detachable ventilation and cleaning holes help maintain a fresh and dry environment inside, making upkeep simple and quick.

Hanging the birdhouse is easy thanks to the sturdy S-shaped chain, which ensures secure placement on trees or fences. This design also keeps birds protected from predators and harsh weather, offering peace of mind for bird lovers.

With a charming retro style, it adds a decorative touch to your outdoor space. While its weight is slightly more than traditional wood models, this adds to its durability and stability in various climates.

Best for: garden enthusiasts seeking a long-lasting, weatherproof birdhouse that attracts small birds and complements outdoor decor.

What We Like:

• Realistic wood-look resin resists fading, rust, and corrosion
• Ventilation and cleaning holes support easy maintenance
• Sturdy hanging chain ensures secure installation
• Compact size ideal for small bird species
• Durable design suitable for diverse weather conditions

Specification:

10-Hole Handmade Bird House for Garden Decor

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Attract a vibrant variety of birds to your garden with the 10-Hole Handmade Bird House for Garden Decor. This unique birdhouse provides multiple nesting spaces, encouraging different bird species to make your yard their home. Its design helps solve the common problem of limited nesting spots in urban or suburban gardens.

Crafted from durable cedar wood, it offers a natural look that blends beautifully with outdoor surroundings. The waterproof finish ensures the birdhouse withstands rain and harsh weather conditions, keeping your feathered visitors safe and dry. Hanging is simple with sturdy metal hooks, making placement flexible.

Maintenance is straightforward but important. With 10 separate compartments, regular cleaning is needed to maintain a healthy environment for birds. This birdhouse supports a diverse range of small birds like cardinals, finches, and bluebirds, promoting local wildlife and enriching your outdoor space.

While the 1-inch entrance holes are perfect for small birds, larger species may not fit. The lightweight structure requires firm mounting, but its portability allows you to move it as needed. Overall, it’s a practical and attractive addition for any garden.

Best for: Garden enthusiasts and bird lovers who want a durable, multi-compartment birdhouse that enhances outdoor spaces and supports various bird families.

What We Like:

• Handmade from cedar wood with a waterproof finish for long-lasting outdoor use
• Ten separate nesting compartments encourage multiple bird species simultaneously
• Lightweight with metal hooks for easy hanging and repositioning
• Natural wood design blends well with garden aesthetics
• Supports local bird populations by providing safe nesting habitats

Specification:

STARSWR Outdoor Wooden Birdhouse with 2 Holes

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Looking to create a welcoming space for small birds in your garden? The STARSWR Outdoor Wooden Birdhouse with 2 Holes offers a smart solution that blends durability with convenience. Its natural wood construction stands up well against the elements, ensuring long-lasting use without frequent repairs.

This birdhouse is designed with functionality in mind. The two small side doors make cleaning simple, helping you maintain a healthy environment for your feathered visitors. The vented top promotes airflow, keeping the interior fresh and comfortable.

The entrance hole, measuring 1.57 inches, is perfect for attracting small birds like cardinals while keeping larger, unwanted species away. Hanging it is hassle-free thanks to the sturdy attached rope, allowing easy placement on trees or boards.

With its thoughtful design, this birdhouse supports safe nesting and enjoyable birdwatching. However, its size limits it to smaller birds, and the artistic style may not suit every outdoor setting. The weight means it should be securely hung to prevent excessive movement.

Best for: Gardeners and bird lovers seeking a durable, easy-to-clean wooden birdhouse tailored for small birds.

What We Like:

• Natural wood construction resists weather damage.
• Two side doors simplify cleaning and maintenance.
• Vented top ensures proper airflow inside.
• Entrance size favors small bird species.
• Attached rope allows easy and secure hanging.

Specification:

Wooden Hanging Birdhouse for Cardinals and Bluebirds

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Discover a charming and practical solution for attracting cardinals, bluebirds, and other small birds to your garden with the Wooden Hanging Birdhouse for Cardinals and Bluebirds. This birdhouse offers a natural look that enhances your outdoor space while providing a safe, cozy home for your feathered visitors.

Crafted from high-quality natural wood, it blends seamlessly into garden settings and withstands the elements with proper care. The lightweight design features hooks for easy hanging from trees or walls, and it can also be mounted on poles. This versatility allows you to position it wherever birds frequent most.

Maintenance is simple but necessary; occasional treatment can protect the wood from weather damage and extend the birdhouse’s lifespan. Its compact size provides an ideal nesting spot but may limit the number or size of birds that can comfortably use it.

With a rustic appeal and practical design, this birdhouse creates a secure environment for nesting birds, enhancing your outdoor experience and supporting local wildlife.

Best for: Gardeners and bird enthusiasts seeking a durable, versatile birdhouse that attracts small birds and fits naturally into outdoor spaces.

What We Like:

• Durable natural wood construction with rustic charm
• Lightweight design allows easy hanging or mounting in various locations
• Provides a secure, cozy nesting spot for multiple small bird species
• Versatile placement options suit different garden layouts

Specification:

Window Bird Houses with Transparent Design for Observation

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Experience bird watching like never before with our window bird houses featuring a transparent design. These innovative birdhouses let you observe birds closely without disturbing their natural behavior. The clear, high-definition window offers a front-row seat to the daily lives of Bluebirds, Wrens, and other small species.

Crafted from solid, weather-resistant carbonized wood, these birdhouses combine durability with a sleek, modern look. The materials ensure longevity and low maintenance, even in harsh outdoor conditions. Simply wipe the window clean to maintain crystal-clear views.

Installation is straightforward with sturdy hooks that securely attach the house to your window. This design keeps the birdhouse stable during storms and strong winds, providing a safe environment for visiting birds. Its compact size and light weight make it easy to mount and ideal for family use.

The unique transparent feature enhances educational opportunities, making it perfect for children and nature lovers to engage with wildlife up close. While limited to window mounting and attracting specific bird species, it offers a rewarding, interactive experience.

Best for: Bird enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone seeking a unique, hands-on way to observe birds without disturbance.

What We Like:

• Durable carbonized wood ensures long-lasting outdoor use
• Clear, high-definition window for unobstructed viewing
• Easy and secure window installation with sturdy hooks
• Lightweight and compact, perfect for family settings
• Enhances educational and interactive bird watching experiences

Specification:

Weatherproof Wooden Bird House for Outdoors

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Looking for a reliable and attractive nesting spot for your backyard birds? The Weatherproof Wooden Bird House for Outdoors offers a sturdy and charming solution. It is designed to protect small to medium birds like cardinals from the elements, making it a safe haven in any weather.

This bird house is crafted from premium wood with a weatherproof finish that resists rain and sun damage. Its compact size and a 1.57-inch entrance hole provide the perfect fit for cardinals and similar species. The included hook makes mounting simple on trees, fences, or poles for flexible placement.

Maintenance is hassle-free thanks to a convenient side door that allows quick access for cleaning and nest care. Regular upkeep ensures the rustic finish and weatherproof coating stay effective, keeping the house durable season after season.

Beyond functionality, this bird house enhances your outdoor space with its natural wood look. It supports bird conservation by offering a safe nesting environment while adding rustic charm to your garden or yard.

Best for: Bird lovers and gardeners wanting a durable, easy-to-maintain shelter for small to medium birds such as cardinals and finches.

What We Like:

• Weatherproof wood construction for lasting durability outdoors
• Easy installation with versatile mounting hook
• Side door design simplifies cleaning and nest maintenance
• Compact size tailored for cardinals and similar birds

Specification:

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bird Houses for Cardinals

When choosing a birdhouse for cardinals, you want to focus on a few key features. Make sure the entrance hole is the right size, and the materials can withstand the weather. Also, check for good ventilation, drainage, predator protection, and easy cleaning access.

Optimal Entrance Hole Size

Although selecting a bird house might seem straightforward, choosing the right entrance hole size is crucial for attracting cardinals while keeping predators at bay. You’ll want an entrance hole about 1.5 to 1.75 inches in diameter. A hole around 1.57 inches works well—it lets smaller birds like finches and chickadees enter but keeps larger predators and unwanted birds out.

If the hole’s too big, predators or bigger birds might invade, threatening cardinals and their nests. On the flip side, a hole that’s too small can discourage cardinals from nesting or block their entry completely. By selecting the correct hole size, you create a safer environment for cardinals and other small songbirds, helping them thrive without unnecessary risks from competitors or predators.

Durable Weather-Resistant Materials

Because bird houses face constant exposure to rain, snow, and humidity, choosing durable, weather-resistant materials is essential for protecting your cardinal’s home. Opt for cedar, resin, or treated wood, as these materials resist warping, cracking, and rotting caused by moisture and temperature changes.

You’ll also want high-quality weatherproof coatings or sealants to add an extra layer of defense without compromising the natural look. Materials naturally resistant to pests and mold further enhance safety and longevity.

When selecting a bird house, ensure it’s built with tight joints and sealed entrances to keep water out, maintaining a dry, secure interior for your cardinals. Prioritizing these materials and construction details helps you provide a reliable, long-lasting haven for your feathered friends.

Adequate Ventilation and Drainage

To keep your cardinal’s nest safe and comfortable, you’ll want to make certain the bird house has proper ventilation and drainage. Proper ventilation regulates temperature and humidity, preventing overheating and mold growth that can harm your birds. Look for small vents or screened openings that allow airflow but keep rain and predators out.

Drainage holes at the bottom are equally important—they let excess water escape, reducing the risk of flooding and rot inside the house. Together, these features maintain a dry, comfortable environment essential for your cardinals’ health and nesting success. When choosing a bird house, prioritize designs that balance airflow with protection and include effective drainage to support your cardinals throughout the seasons.

Safe Predator Protection Design

When choosing a bird house for cardinals, ensuring it has effective predator protection is essential for keeping your feathered friends safe. Look for houses with small entrance holes that block larger animals like cats or raccoons from getting inside. Mount or hang the house on a pole or branch to reduce access by ground predators.

Predator guards such as baffles or metal collars are great additions to stop climbing threats. Place the house away from low shrubs or dense cover to avoid creating ambush spots nearby. Also, opt for predator-resistant materials like metal or reinforced wood, which can withstand chewing or scratching attempts.

Easy Cleaning Accessibility

Although predator protection is essential, you’ll also want a bird house that’s easy to clean. Choosing a model with accessible doors or panels lets you quickly remove old nests and debris, keeping the space hygienic for cardinals. Look for bird houses featuring side or rear doors that open smoothly without disturbing the nesting site, so maintenance is hassle-free.

Easy cleaning access prevents the buildup of parasites and mold, which can harm the birds’ health and reduce nesting success. Structures with removable or hinged panels make regular sanitation simple, ensuring the habitat stays safe and inviting season after season. Prioritizing easy cleaning accessibility not only benefits the current residents but also promotes long-term nesting success for cardinals returning year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Location to Place a Cardinal Birdhouse?

You should place the cardinal birdhouse in a quiet, sheltered spot about 5 to 10 feet above the ground. Look for a location near shrubs or trees that provide cover and protection from predators. Avoid direct sunlight and strong winds by choosing a spot with partial shade.

Make sure it’s away from busy areas or loud noises to help cardinals feel safe and encourage them to nest comfortably.

How Do I Clean and Maintain a Cardinal Birdhouse?

You should clean your cardinal birdhouse at least once a year, preferably in late fall after nesting season. Open it up, remove old nesting material, and scrub the interior with a mild bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) to kill bacteria and parasites.

Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before reassembling. Regularly check for damage or pests, and repaint or repair as needed to keep the house safe and inviting.

When Is the Best Time to Put up a Birdhouse for Cardinals?

You should put up a birdhouse for cardinals by late winter or early spring, ideally February or March. Did you know cardinals often start nesting as early as February when temperatures average around 40°F?

Getting your birdhouse up early gives cardinals time to inspect and claim it before nesting season. Plus, it helps protect them from harsh weather and predators, increasing their chances of successfully raising young.

What Predators Should I Watch Out for Near Cardinal Birdhouses?

You should watch out for predators like snakes, raccoons, squirrels, and domestic cats near cardinal birdhouses. These animals can raid nests for eggs or chicks. Hawks and owls may also pose a threat from above.

To protect your cardinals, place the birdhouse in a safe location away from easy climbing access and consider adding predator guards. Staying vigilant helps keep your feathered friends safe and thriving.

Can Cardinals Use Birdhouses Designed for Other Bird Species?

Yes, cardinals can use birdhouses designed for other species, but you need to be careful. Cardinals prefer open-fronted or partially enclosed houses rather than small entrance holes typical for cavity nesters like bluebirds.

If the birdhouse is too small or has a tiny entrance, cardinals might avoid it. To attract cardinals, choose or modify houses with larger openings and enough space inside, making them comfortable and safe for these beautiful birds.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect birdhouse for cardinals is like giving them a cozy little castle in your backyard kingdom. With the right nest, you’ll invite vibrant songs and fluttering wings to dance just outside your window.

Remember, a sturdy, weatherproof home with the right size and features will make your feathered friends feel right at home. So, pick a birdhouse that welcomes cardinals like an old friend—your outdoor sanctuary awaits their cheerful presence!