To attract vibrant cardinals to your backyard, choose seed blends high in black oil sunflower and safflower seeds, like Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend or Audubon Park Cardinal Blend.
Kaytee’s Ultimate Birder’s Blend and Nut & Fruit mix also works excellently for diversifying food options.
Wagner’s Farmer’s Delight with cherry flavor entices ground feeders, while Wagner’s Deluxe Wild Bird Food supports all feeder types.
These choices meet cardinals’ nutritional needs and keep squirrels away.
If you want to create a lively bird-friendly space, exploring these blends further will help.
It’s a simple way to brighten up your backyard and enjoy watching these beautiful birds.
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Wagner's 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird ...
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Kaytee Ultimate Birder's Blend Food, Wil...
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Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food, 6-Pound Bag
- 60% Black Oil Sunflower Seeds, 40% Safflower Seeds
- Loaded with sunflower and safflower
- Mixture of high oil content seeds provides the necessary energy...
- Convenient velcro press-lok
- Made in the USA
If you want to attract vibrant cardinals to your backyard, Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food offers a targeted, high-energy solution. This blend combines two key seeds that provide essential oils, helping to keep cardinals lively and healthy throughout the day. Its carefully chosen ingredients ensure these birds receive the nutrition they need.
The seed mix comes in a handy 6-pound bag with a Velcro press-lok closure. This design keeps the seeds fresh and makes storage simple, preventing spills and preserving quality between feedings. It’s ideal for bird watchers who want a low-maintenance feeding option.
This blend contains 60% black oil sunflower seeds and 40% safflower seeds, both favored by cardinals for their energy-rich oils. While this focused mix excels at attracting cardinals, it may not appeal to a broad range of bird species, so it’s best suited for those targeting these colorful visitors specifically.
Made in the USA, this product supports local manufacturing standards and quality assurance. The straightforward seed combination ensures easy feeding without extra fillers or additives, simplifying maintenance and enhancing the enjoyment of birdwatching.
Best for: Bird enthusiasts who want to attract and nourish cardinals with a high-energy, easy-to-store seed blend.
What We Like:
- High oil content seeds support active and healthy cardinals
- Convenient Velcro press-lok packaging maintains freshness
- Made in the USA, ensuring reliable quality
- Simple seed mix explicitly designed for cardinals
- Easy to store and handle with the resealable bag
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food |
| Bag Weight | 6 pounds |
| Packaging Type | Resealable bag with Velcro press-lok |
| Seed Composition | 60% black oil sunflower seeds, 40% safflower seeds |
| Intended Use | Attracting and feeding wild cardinals |
| Country of Manufacture | USA |
Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food (4-Pound Bag)
- Contains no fillers – just 100% sunflower and safflower seed
- Black oil sunflower seeds for wholesome energy
- Safflower is rich in oil and disliked by squirrels
- Attracts cardinals, titmice, chickadees, finches, grosbeaks, and...
- For use in hopper, tube, or platform feeders
Bring vibrant wildlife closer to your backyard with the Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food. This carefully crafted blend is designed to attract cardinals and other popular songbirds by providing their favorite seeds in a simple, compelling mix. The formula combines black oil sunflower seeds for energy with safflower seeds, which are less appealing to squirrels, reducing seed loss and frustration.
The 4-pound bag is ideal for regular use, fitting well in hopper, tube, or platform feeders. This versatility means you can easily maintain a consistent feeding spot that attracts a variety of birds, including titmice, chickadees, finches, grosbeaks, and cardinals. Keeping feeders replenished is straightforward thanks to the manageable bag size.
Audubon Park has been dedicated to safe, natural nutrition since 1982, ensuring the blend is free of fillers. This focus on quality supports the health of visiting birds and enhances your birdwatching experience. While it may not appeal to birds that prefer other seeds, this blend’s specificity helps you cultivate a targeted, lively feeder area.
Best for: Backyard bird enthusiasts looking to attract cardinals and a variety of songbirds with a natural, high-quality seed blend.
What We Like:
- 100% sunflower and safflower seeds with no fillers, ensuring nutritious feeding.
- Safflower seeds help deter squirrels, minimizing wasted seed.
- Compatible with hopper, tube, and platform feeders for flexible use.
- Focus on natural ingredients to support bird health and wellbeing.
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Audubon Park |
| Product Name | Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food |
| Weight | 4 pounds |
| Seed Composition | Black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds |
| Fillers | None |
| Suitable Feeder Types | Hopper, tube, platform feeders |
| Intended Bird Species | Cardinals, titmice, chickadees, finches, grosbeaks |
| Squirrel Resistance | Yes, due to safflower seeds |
| Nutritional Focus | High-energy sunflower seeds with natural safflower |
| Established Brand Since | 1982 |
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend Food Seed (10 Pound)
- FORMULATED BY BIRD ENTHUSIASTS to attract a variety of colorful...
- MADE WITH Safflower, Peanuts, Striped Sunflower and Millet
- CONTAINS A HEALTHY BLEND of sunflower seeds, safflower seeds and...
- ATTRACT MORE SONGBIRDS by placing a feeder near trees and a water...
- CAREFULLY CRAFTED IN THE USA & trusted by experts for over 150...
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend Food Seed (10 Pound) is designed to attract a variety of birds, especially Cardinals, to your backyard. This seed mix combines several high-energy ingredients, such as Safflower, Peanuts, Striped Sunflower, and Millet, providing birds with the nutrition they need to thrive. Its thoughtful blend supports the health and vitality of many species.
The seed mix is compatible with multiple feeder types, including hopper, gazebo, and tube feeders. This versatility lets you use your preferred feeder without worrying about seed spillage or waste. The blend’s large seed size is ideal for medium to large birds, ensuring easy access and feeding.
Maintaining this seed is straightforward; store it in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh and prevent spoilage. Regularly cleaning your feeder will help preserve the quality of the seed and keep visiting birds safe. Providing this consistent food source encourages birds to visit more frequently and stay longer.
While the mix attracts many desirable birds, its high-energy seeds can also draw squirrels and other pests. Additionally, the larger seeds may not be suitable for smaller bird species, which might prefer finer seed blends. The 10-pound bag offers a good quantity but may require ample storage space.
Best for: Bird watchers seeking a versatile, nutritious seed blend to attract Cardinals and other medium- to large-sized wild birds across various feeder types.
What We Like:
- Nutrient-rich mix including Safflower, Peanuts, Striped Sunflower, and Millet.
- Compatible with hopper, gazebo, and tube feeders.
- Supports frequent visits and longer stays by attracting a diverse range of bird species.
- Easy to store and maintain with proper care.
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 10 pounds |
| Seed Types Included | Safflower, Peanuts, Striped Sunflower, Millet |
| Suitable Bird Species | Cardinals, Grosbeaks, Nuthatches, Woodpeckers, Juncos |
| Feeder Compatibility | Hopper feeders, Gazebo feeders, Tube feeders |
| Seed Size | Medium to large |
| Storage Recommendations | Store in a cool, dry place |
| Package Dimensions | Approximately 12 x 8 x 4 inches |
Wagner’s Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor, 10-Pound Bag
- A value priced mix that attracts a wide variety of backyard birds
- Contains general purpose seeds including sunflower
- Use in Hopper or Tube Feeders
- Highest quality grains used in blending
- Made in the USA
Wagner’s Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor is designed to attract a wide range of ground-feeding birds to your backyard. This thoughtfully crafted blend provides essential nutrition, helping birds thrive through all life stages. Its unique cherry flavor adds a subtle appeal that can enhance the feeding experience for many species.
This 10-pound bag offers a clean mix of millet, milo, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds, ensuring birds receive a balanced diet. The food works well in both hopper and tube feeders, making it adaptable to different feeder types in your garden setup. Its versatility helps maintain a lively and diverse bird population.
Maintaining the bird food is simple—store it in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage. The packaging is sturdy enough to keep the contents protected until used. While the cherry flavor may not appeal to all bird species, it is particularly effective for ground feeders.
Overall, this bird food blend supports a healthy backyard ecosystem by encouraging natural feeding habits. It is a practical choice for anyone looking to enhance their birdwatching experience with nutritious, accessible food options.
Best for: Backyard bird enthusiasts aiming to attract a variety of ground-feeding birds with a nutritious, versatile bird food blend.
What We Like:
- Balanced blend of millet, milo, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds supports bird health.
- Compatible with hopper and tube feeders for flexible feeding options.
- Clean mix helps reduce waste and maintains feeder cleanliness.
- Unique cherry flavor adds variety to typical bird seed mixes.
- Made in the USA with quality-controlled ingredients.
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Wagner’s Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Seed Blend | Millet, milo, cracked corn, sunflower seeds |
| Flavor | Cherry |
| Suitable Feeder Types | Hopper feeders, tube feeders |
| Intended Use | Feeding a variety of ground-feeding backyard birds |
| Origin | Made in the USA |
| Packaging | Durable bag designed for easy storage and freshness preservation |
| Bird Attraction Focus | Primarily ground feeders |
Wagner’s 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food, 10 lb Bag
- Attracts perching and ground birds
- Contains sunflower and general purpose seeds
- Moderately priced valued blend that gets the birds
- Highest quality grains used
- Made in the USA
Wagner’s 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food is designed to attract a wide variety of backyard birds, including cardinals, chickadees, and finches. This high-quality seed blend combines premium sunflower and general-purpose seeds, providing a nutritious meal that appeals to both perching and ground-feeding birds. Its balanced mix ensures your feathered visitors stay well-fed and return regularly to your feeding area.
This 10 lb bag is suitable for use in all types of feeders, including tube, hopper, and platform feeders, making it versatile and easy to maintain. The seeds are carefully selected to minimize mess and waste, helping to keep your feeding area clean. Feeding birds with this blend encourages natural foraging behavior, supporting their health and vitality throughout the year.
Made in the USA, Wagner’s Deluxe Wild Bird Food offers a reliable option for bird enthusiasts who want to enhance their outdoor experience. While the bag size is generous, it suits active feeders looking to attract multiple species. Its moderate pricing reflects the quality of ingredients used, providing a dependable food source without compromising value.
Best for: Bird enthusiasts looking to attract a variety of perching and ground-feeding birds such as cardinals, chickadees, and finches with a high-quality, moderately priced seed blend.
What We Like:
- Contains premium sunflower and general-purpose seeds appealing to diverse bird species
- Suitable for all feeder types, including ground feeding
- Minimizes mess, aiding in easy maintenance
- Supports a range of backyard birds with a balanced nutrition profile
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Wagner’s 13008 Deluxe Wild Bird Food |
| Weight | 10 lb |
| Seed Blend | Premium sunflower and general-purpose seeds |
| Suitable Feeders | All types (tube, hopper, platform, ground feeders) |
| Intended Use | Attracting perching and ground-feeding wild birds |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Target Bird Species | Cardinals, chickadees, finches, and other wild birds |
Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed, 5 lb
- PREMIUM WILD BIRD FOOD BLEND ideal for attracting a variety of...
- HIGH IN ENERGY AND NUTRITION that will keep wild birds visiting...
- CONTAINS INGREDIENTS WILD BIRDS LOVE such as sunflower seeds,...
- SPECIALLY BLENDED TO APPEAL TO A VARIETY OF BIRDS like Cardinals,...
- CAREFULLY CRAFTED & TRUSTED by experts for over 150 years, Kaytee...
You want to effortlessly attract a variety of colorful songbirds to your backyard. Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed, 5 lb, offers a balanced blend of nuts, fruits, and seeds designed to draw vibrant Cardinals, Chickadees, Grosbeaks, and other favorites. This mix provides birds with the energy and nutrients they need, encouraging more extended visits and increased activity at your feeder.
The combination of sunflower seeds, peanuts, raisins, cherries, and assorted nuts ensures that your feeder appeals to a broad range of species. This diversity helps maintain a lively backyard environment and supports bird health. The compact 5-pound packaging is easy to store and handle, making refills convenient and straightforward.
Maintaining your feeder with this blend is straightforward. While the mix is nutritious, occasional refills will keep the seeds fresh and attractive. Be mindful that the nuts and fruits may attract squirrels or other wildlife, so consider feeder placement accordingly.
Crafted by Kaytee, a trusted name with over 150 years of experience, this seed blend guarantees quality and consistent results. Its appeal to multiple bird species and high nutritional value make it a reliable choice for any bird lover.
Best for: Backyard bird enthusiasts looking to attract a variety of vibrant songbirds with a nutritious, energy-rich seed mix.
What We Like:
- A diverse mix attracts multiple bird species.
- Nutrient-rich blend encourages more extended visits.
- Compact 5 lb packaging for easy handling.
- Trusted brand with extensive experience.
- Supports a lively and colorful backyard environment.
Specification:
| Specification Title | Detailed Description |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Seed Mix Composition | Sunflower seeds, peanuts, raisins, cherries, mixed nuts |
| Target Bird Species | Cardinals, Chickadees, Grosbeaks, and more |
| Packaging | Compact, easy-to-store bag |
| Nutritional Benefits | High-energy blend with essential nutrients |
| Brand | Kaytee |
Best Bird Seed Comparison: Top Picks to Attract Cardinals
| Seed Blend | Key Ingredients | Bag Size | Squirrel Resistance | Feeder Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagners 62032 Cardinal Blend | 60% Black Oil Sunflower, 40% Safflower | 6 lbs | High (safflower deters) | Hopper, platform |
| Audubon Park Cardinal Blend | Black Oil Sunflower, Safflower (no fillers) | 4 lbs | High (safflower base) | Hopper, tube, platform |
| Kaytee Ultimate Birders Blend | Safflower, peanuts, striped sunflower, millet | 10 lbs | Medium | Hopper, gazebo, tube |
| Wagners Farmers Delight | Millet, milo, cracked corn, sunflower, cherry flavor | 10 lbs | Low | Hopper, tube, ground |
| Wagners Deluxe Wild Bird Food | Premium sunflower, general seeds | 10 lbs | Medium | All types (tube, hopper, platform) |
| Kaytee Nut Fruit Blend | Sunflower, peanuts, raisins, cherries, nuts | 5 lbs | Low (nuts attract) | Hopper, platform |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Bird Seed to Attract Cardinals
When you’re picking out bird seed to attract cardinals, it’s a good idea to focus on the types of seeds they love the most and what kind of nutrition those seeds provide. Cardinals really go for sunflower seeds, especially black oil sunflower seeds, because they’re full of good fats and energy.
Also, keep in mind that what you put in your seed mix might need to change with the seasons. Cardinals’ feeding habits can shift throughout the year, so offering a variety of foods can help meet their needs at any time.
And don’t forget about where you place your feeders! Cardinals like to feel safe and comfortable when they eat, so placing feeders near shrubs or trees can make a big difference in attracting them.
Seed Type Preferences
Although cardinals enjoy a variety of seeds, they show a strong preference for those high in oil content, such as black oil sunflower and safflower seeds. These seeds provide the energy cardinals need and are particularly attractive to them.
Safflower seeds have the added benefit of deterring squirrels, so you’ll face less competition at your feeder. When choosing seed mixes, look for blends focused on black oil sunflower and safflower without fillers. Cardinals favor high-quality seeds that meet their dietary needs.
While offering a mix can draw various birds, emphasizing these two seed types will specifically attract cardinals to your backyard. By selecting the right seeds, you’ll create a welcoming spot for these vibrant birds to visit regularly.
Nutritional Value Importance
Choosing the right seed types is just one part of attracting cardinals. You also need to focus on the nutritional value of the seeds you offer. Cardinals thrive on high-oil seeds like black oil sunflower. These provide the fat and energy they need for their active lifestyles.
Including safflower seeds is smart too. They’re rich in oil and less likely to attract squirrels. When selecting bird seed, avoid mixes with fillers that dilute nutritional content.
Concentrated, nutrient-dense seed blends not only support cardinals’ health but also encourage them to visit your feeder regularly. By prioritizing seeds with high fat content and nutrient-dense nutrients, you’ll create a feeding station that meets cardinals’ dietary needs and keeps these vibrant visitors coming back.
Seed Mix Composition
To attract cardinals effectively, you need to focus on the composition of your seed mix. Cardinals favor blends rich in black oil sunflower and safflower seeds, as these provide crucial energy and nutrition. Choosing mixes without fillers guarantees cardinals get the most beneficial nutrients without wasted ingredients.
Including high-energy components like peanuts and millet can boost a seed mix’s appeal, encouraging cardinals to visit your feeder more often. Also, pay attention to the oil content. Seeds with higher oil levels are beautiful and provide essential energy, particularly during colder times.
Seed mixes formulated specifically for cardinals usually combine these preferred ingredients. This increases your chances of drawing them in and brightening your backyard with their vibrant presence.
Seasonal Feeding Needs
Since cardinals’ dietary needs change with the seasons, you’ll want to adjust the seed mix you offer accordingly. In winter, cardinals need high-energy foods, so provide high-oil seeds like black oil sunflower and safflower to help them stay warm.
During the breeding season, they require more protein and fat, so including nuts and nutrient-rich seeds in your mix is essential. In spring and summer, cardinals prefer seeds with higher moisture content, often found in fruit blends.
Keep in mind that natural food sources like insects and berries vary by season, so your seed choices should complement what’s available. Offering a consistent food supply year-round helps cardinals establish a reliable feeding routine, ensuring they thrive no matter the season.
Feeding Location Tips
When attracting cardinals, you’ll want to place feeders where these birds feel safe yet can easily watch for predators. Position your feeders in open areas near shrubs or trees, providing nearby cover for cardinals without blocking their view. Keep feeders at least 5 to 10 feet from dense foliage to give a clear line of sight.
Morning sunlight is ideal since cardinals are most active early in the day, so choose spots that catch the sun. Platform feeders work well because cardinals prefer larger platforms on which to pick seeds. But tube feeders filled with safflower seeds also attract them and help keep squirrels away.
Feeder Type Compatibility
Choosing the right feeder type goes hand in hand with selecting the best bird seed to attract cardinals. Make sure the seed you pick matches your feeder, whether it’s a hopper, tube, or platform feeder, to give cardinals easy access. Cardinal-friendly blends usually contain black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds, perfect for hopper and platform feeders.
Since cardinals prefer larger seeds, confirm your feeder openings are wide enough to accommodate them. If you use platform or ground feeders, opt for seed blends suitable for ground feeding to invite cardinals to feed comfortably. Don’t forget to clean and maintain your feeders regularly; a clean feeder keeps cardinals coming back and guarantees they stay healthy.
Matching seeds to feeders maximizes your chances of enjoying these vibrant visitors. It’s all about making it easy and inviting for the birds. So get your setup right, and watch those beautiful cardinals make themselves at home!
Avoiding Squirrel Attraction
Although cardinals love black oil sunflower and safflower seeds, these same seeds can attract pesky squirrels if you’re not careful. To keep squirrels at bay, choose safflower seeds since many squirrels dislike their taste.
Opt for seed blends high in black oil sunflower seeds but low in fillers like millet or cracked corn, which squirrels find appealing. Using feeders explicitly designed for safflower or sunflower seeds also helps, as squirrels often struggle with these feeders.
Position your feeders on poles equipped with baffles or in open areas where squirrels can’t easily reach them. By combining these strategies, you’ll provide cardinals with their favorite seeds while minimizing squirrel visits.
This way, you keep your backyard a peaceful feeding spot for the birds you want to attract. It’s all about making the feeding experience easier for the cardinals and tougher for the squirrels.
Local Bird Species Consideration
Keeping squirrels away is just one part of creating a bird-friendly backyard. When choosing bird seed, you should also consider the local bird species, especially cardinals. Cardinals mainly eat seeds high in oil, such as black oil sunflower and safflower seeds.
Since they’re ground feeders, including larger seeds and grains in your mix can make your feeder more appealing. The types of seeds available and the birds around you can change with the seasons, so adapting your seed mix helps maintain the cardinals visiting. Safflower seeds are great because they attract cardinals while deterring squirrels.
Also, cardinals love vibrant colors, so using mixes with colorful seeds or fruits can boost their interest and feeding frequency. Tailoring your seed choices to local preferences guarantees a lively, cardinal-friendly backyard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Refill the Bird Feeder to Keep Cardinals Coming?
You should refill your bird feeder every two to three days to keep cardinals coming back consistently. Cardinals prefer fresh seeds, so don’t let the feeder get empty, or the seeds go stale.
During colder months or when there’s heavy bird activity, you might need to refill it daily. Keep an eye on seed levels and clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold or disease.
This way, you’ll ensure a safe and inviting spot for cardinals to visit often.
What Type of Feeder Is Best for Attracting Cardinals?
You’ll want to use a sturdy feeder with large perches, since cardinals are larger birds. Tray feeders or hopper feeders work best because they provide enough space for cardinals to land and eat comfortably.
Avoid tiny tube feeders meant for small songbirds. They’re just too small for cardinals.
Also, place your feeder near shrubs or trees so cardinals feel safe while feeding. That way, you’ll have them visiting regularly.
Can Cardinals Eat Fruits and Nuts Besides Seeds?
Yes, cardinals can definitely eat fruits and nuts, not just seeds! You might think they stick strictly to seeds, but they actually enjoy a variety of foods, such as berries, grapes, and chopped nuts. Offering these will keep them coming back and add nutrition to their diet.
How Do Weather Conditions Affect Cardinals’ Feeding Habits?
Weather conditions greatly influence cardinals’ feeding habits. When it’s cold or snowy, you’ll find cardinals visiting feeders more often since natural food becomes scarce. During hot or rainy weather, they might feed less frequently or seek shelter.
You can help by providing fresh water and high-energy seeds, such as sunflower or safflower, especially during harsh weather. This way, you keep them nourished and comfortable in your backyard. It’s a simple way to support these beautiful birds year-round.
Are There Specific Times of Day When Cardinals Are Most Active?
You’ll notice cardinals are most active at dawn and dusk, as if they’ve got a secret meeting scheduled at those times! During early morning, they’re busy feeding to fuel up for the day. In the evening, they snack before settling down.
If you want to see them in action, these quiet hours are your best bet. So, get outside early or late to catch their vibrant presence!
Conclusion
Choosing the right bird seed to attract cardinals is like painting your backyard with vibrant colors. Each seed blend invites its bright presence closer.
By picking quality mixes like Wagner’s Cardinal Blend or Kaytee’s Nut & Fruit, you’ll create a welcoming feast that cardinals can’t resist. Remember, the right seed not only brightens your yard but also supports these beautiful birds throughout the seasons.
So, get ready to enjoy their cheerful visits day after day!