Cardinals are beautiful birds. Attracting them to your yard is rewarding. But finding the right feeder can be tricky. Many feeders aren't designed for cardinals. This guide reviews the best feeders. We’ll help you choose the perfect one.
Product Overview
- Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder: Squirrel-proof design with weight-activated shutoff.
- Perky-Pet Panorama Feeder: Circular perch design that attracts many birds.
- Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper: Motorized, squirrel-resistant feeder.
- Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder: Large capacity with adjustable weight settings.
- Aspects Big Tube Feeder: Durable polycarbonate tube feeder.
Top 5 Best Feeders for Cardinals
Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder
The Brome Squirrel Buster Finch Feeder is well-known. It blocks squirrels from getting to the seeds. Cardinals can easily access the food.
Pros:
- ✅ Totally squirrel-proof.
- ✅ Easy to clean and refill.
- ✅ Durable construction lasts for years.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive.
- ❌ Smaller birds might have trouble using it.
- ❌ Only holds small seeds.
Verdict: Worth the investment if squirrels are a problem. Best for smaller seed types.
Perky-Pet Panorama Feeder
The Perky-Pet Panorama Feeder has a unique circular perch. It allows many birds to feed at once. Cardinals seem to love the open design.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ 360-degree feeding.
- ✅ Easy to fill and clean.
Cons:
- ❌ Not squirrel-proof.
- ❌ Plastic construction may not last as long.
- ❌ Can be easily emptied by larger birds.
Verdict: Great for attracting multiple birds. Best if squirrels aren’t a major issue.
Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper
The Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper is a fun, motorized feeder. It spins squirrels off when they try to feed. This keeps the seeds for the birds.
Pros:
- ✅ Very effective squirrel deterrent.
- ✅ Entertaining to watch.
- ✅ Large capacity for seeds.
Cons:
- ❌ Expensive option.
- ❌ Requires batteries.
- ❌ Motor can be noisy.
Verdict: Ideal for those who enjoy watching squirrels fail. Best for areas with heavy squirrel traffic.
Woodlink Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder
The Woodlink Absolute II is a large-capacity feeder. It has adjustable weight settings. This allows you to customize squirrel resistance.
Pros:
- ✅ Large seed capacity.
- ✅ Adjustable weight settings.
- ✅ Durable metal construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to adjust.
- ❌ Squirrels may still get to it.
- ❌ More expensive than basic feeders.
Verdict: Good for people who want to fine-tune squirrel resistance. Best for larger yards with many birds.
Aspects Big Tube Feeder
The Aspects Big Tube Feeder is a simple, durable tube feeder. Its polycarbonate construction is very robust. It is perfect for holding black oil sunflower seeds.
Pros:
- ✅ Very durable and long-lasting.
- ✅ Easy to clean and maintain.
- ✅ Good seed capacity.
Cons:
- ❌ Not squirrel-proof.
- ❌ Can be expensive for a tube feeder.
- ❌ May require a baffle to deter squirrels.
Verdict: A solid, reliable choice for attracting cardinals. Best when paired with a squirrel baffle.
Buying Guide
Picking the right cardinal feeder involves a few key things. Think about squirrels, seed type, and size.
Squirrel Resistance: If squirrels are common, get a squirrel-proof feeder. Weight-activated or caged feeders work well.
Seed Type: Cardinals love black oil sunflower seeds. Choose a feeder that dispenses these seeds easily.
Feeder Size: A larger feeder means less refilling. But start small to see what the birds like.
Material: Metal feeders last longer than plastic ones. Polycarbonate tubes are also durable.
Perch Style: Cardinals prefer feeders with perches. Look for wide, sturdy perches.
Ease of Cleaning: Regular cleaning prevents disease. Choose a feeder that's easy to take apart.
Also, consider where you'll put the feeder. Place it near trees or shrubs. This gives the birds a safe place to escape.
FAQs
What kind of seeds do cardinals prefer?
Cardinals love black oil sunflower seeds. They also eat safflower and white striped sunflower seeds.
How do I keep squirrels away from my bird feeder?
Use a squirrel-proof feeder, a baffle, or move the feeder away from trees.
Where is the best place to hang a cardinal feeder?
Hang it in a quiet spot near trees or shrubs. This provides cover for the birds.
How often should I clean my bird feeder?
Clean it every few weeks. This prevents the spread of diseases.
Can I attract cardinals to my yard without a feeder?
Yes, plant native trees and shrubs. These provide natural food and shelter.
Conclusion
Finding the best feeder for cardinals makes a big difference. Consider your budget and squirrel situation. Then pick a feeder that meets your needs. With the right feeder, you can enjoy these beautiful birds all year long. I’ve had great luck with the Brome feeder myself. It keeps the squirrels away. And the cardinals always come back for more.
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