The Ultimate Northern Cardinal Diet Guide: What Do Red Birds Eat?
If you want to attract these vibrant red visitors to your backyard, the first question you must answer is: what do northern cardinals eat? Unlike some picky eaters, Northern Cardinals have a diverse diet consisting of seeds, fruits, and insects. Their strong, cone-shaped beaks are perfectly designed for cracking open tough shells. Whether you are curious about what does a red cardinal eat during the breeding season or what do cardinals eat in winter to survive the cold, this guide provides everything you need to know to become their favorite host.
Table of Contents
- The Favorite Food for Northern Cardinals
- Seasonal Diet: What Do Cardinals Eat in Winter vs. Summer?
- What Do Red Cardinal Birds Eat to Stay Bright?
- What Do Cardinals Eat That Squirrels Don’t?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Favorite Food for Northern Cardinals
While they enjoy a variety of treats, there are a few “superfoods” that will almost guarantee a visit. If you are wondering what do northern cardinals like to eat most, start with these top choices:
| Food Type | Why Cardinals Love It | Best Way to Serve |
|---|---|---|
| Black Oil Sunflower Seeds | High fat content and thin shells. | Tube, hopper, or platform feeders. |
| Safflower Seeds | A bitter seed that cardinals love but squirrels hate. | Hopper or tray feeders. |
| Hulled Sunflower Hearts | Easy to eat with zero mess under the feeder. | Hanging feeders. |
| Cracked Corn | Provides essential carbohydrates. | Ground or platform feeders. |
| Suet Blends | High-energy fuel for cold mornings. | Suet cages or tail-prop feeders. |
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Seasonal Diet: What Do Cardinals Eat in Winter vs. Summer?
Northern cardinal what do they eat changes significantly with the calendar. Their survival depends on their ability to switch food sources based on availability.
What Do Cardinals Eat in Winter?
During the coldest months, what do cardinal birds eat in the winter is almost entirely plant-based. Since insects are scarce, they rely on:
- Persistent Berries: Dogwood, serviceberry, and wild grape.
- High-Fat Seeds: This is the best time to offer suet and black oil sunflower seeds to help them maintain body heat.
- Grains: They will frequently visit ground feeders for millet and cracked corn.
What Do Cardinals Eat in Summer?
In the warmer months, what do cardinals eat in summer shifts toward protein to support nesting and feeding their young:
- Insects: Beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and snails make up a large portion of their diet.
- Fresh Fruit: They love raiding berry bushes like blueberries and mulberries.
What Do Red Cardinal Birds Eat to Stay Bright?
The stunning plumage of a red cardinal bird isn’t just luck; it’s a result of their diet. They consume fruits and berries rich in carotenoids. These natural pigments are processed by the bird’s body to create that iconic crimson red.
What Do Cardinals Eat That Squirrels Don’t?
Every backyard birder knows the struggle with squirrels. If you want to feed your red birds without inviting the neighborhood rodents, the answer is Safflower Seeds. These small white seeds have a bitter taste that most squirrels find unappealing, but it is a top-tier favorite food for cardinals.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the favorite food for cardinals?
Black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds are widely considered their absolute favorites due to their high oil and fat content.
What does it mean when a cardinal stays around your house?
From a bird-watching perspective, it means you have provided a reliable source of food, water, and shelter. Spiritually, it’s often seen as a sign of comfort and luck.
Do cardinals recognize people who feed them?
Yes! Cardinals are highly intelligent and can become accustomed to the person who refills their feeders daily.
What do cardinals eat that squirrels don’t?
Safflower seeds are the best “squirrel-proof” food. Cardinals love them, but squirrels generally find them too bitter to eat.
Summary: Attracting the King of the Backyard
Knowing what do red cardinal birds eat is the first step toward a successful bird-feeding hobby. By offering a mix of sunflower seeds, safflower, and suet, you cater to their needs through all four seasons. Remember to provide a consistent water source and keep your feeders clean to ensure these magnificent red birds continue to call your backyard home.
