Cardinals are beautiful birds that can bring color and life to your backyard. If you’re looking to attract cardinals to a birdhouse, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to make your outdoor space a Cardinal hotspot.
Choose the Right Bird Seed
One of the most important factors in attracting cardinals to a birdhouse is providing the right bird seed. Cardinals are known to enjoy seeds such as black oil sunflower, cracked corn, suet, Nyjer seed, mealworms, peanuts, safflower, striped sunflower, and sunflower hearts and chips. A blend like the Kaytee Cardinal blend can offer a mix of these favorites, increasing the likelihood of attracting these special birds.
Place Birdhouse in a Strategic Location
Location is key when it comes to attracting cardinals. Place your birdhouse in an area with plenty of natural cover, like bushes or trees, as cardinals prefer to have some form of protection nearby. Placing the birdhouse near shrubs or dense foliage can make cardinals feel more comfortable and safe while visiting.
Provide Fresh Water Source
In addition to bird seed, cardinals need access to fresh water. Setting up a birdbath or small water feature near the birdhouse can attract cardinals, as they like to drink and bathe in shallow water. Keeping the water clean and changing it regularly is essential to ensure the cardinals keep coming back.
Offer Shelter and Nesting Materials
Cardinals, like many birds, appreciate shelter and nesting materials. Planting shrubs, bushes, and trees around the birdhouse can provide additional perches and cover for cardinals. You can also scatter materials like twigs, grass, and feathers near the birdhouse to attract cardinals looking to build nests.
Keep Predators Away
Cardinals are susceptible to predators like cats, so it’s essential to take measures to keep them away from your birdhouse. Placing the birdhouse at a height that is difficult for predators to reach, using predator guards, or installing motion-activated deterrents can help protect the cardinals.
Offer Variety in Feeding Options
Providing a variety of feeding options can help attract cardinals to your birdhouse. In addition to seeds, consider offering suet cakes or mealworms, as cardinals enjoy these high-protein treats. Creating a diverse menu can appeal to the preferences of different bird species, including cardinals.
Keep Bird Feeder Clean
Regular cleaning of your bird feeder is crucial to keep cardinals coming back. Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to birds. Cleaning the feeder with a mild soap solution and rinsing it thoroughly can help maintain a healthy feeding environment for cardinals.
Opt for a Platform Feeder
Cardinals prefer feeding on flat surfaces, so using a platform feeder can be a great choice. Platform feeders provide a wide, open space for cardinals to perch and feed comfortably. Adding a cover or roof to the feeder can protect the seeds from rain and snow, keeping them dry and appealing to cardinals.
Be Patient and Observant
Attracting cardinals to a birdhouse may take time, so patience is key. Spend time observing the birds in your area and learning their behaviors. By understanding what attracts cardinals and adjusting your birdhouse setup accordingly, you can increase your chances of attracting these stunning birds.
Use Bright Colors and Proper Lighting
Cardinals are drawn to bright colors, so incorporating red accents or decorations near the birdhouse can catch their eye. Additionally, proper lighting around the birdhouse can make it more visible to cardinals, especially during dawn and dusk when they are most active. Creating an inviting and visible space can help attract more cardinals.
Practice Year-Round Feeding
Consistent feeding throughout the year can help establish your birdhouse as a reliable food source for cardinals. Keeping the feeder well-stocked, especially during colder months when food may be scarce, can encourage cardinals to visit regularly. By providing a consistent food supply, you can create a habit for cardinals to return to your birdhouse.
Enjoy the Cardinal Visitors
Once you’ve successfully attracted cardinals to your birdhouse, take time to appreciate and enjoy their presence. Cardinals are beautiful birds with distinct calls and vibrant plumage, making them a delightful addition to any backyard. By creating a welcoming environment for cardinals, you can create a rewarding experience for both yourself and these stunning birds.
