5 Best Bird Feeders for Northern Cardinals: A Comprehensive Review

The Northern Cardinal, with its vibrant red plumage, distinctive crest, and melodious song, is a beloved backyard visitor across North America.

Attracting these stunning birds to your yard requires more than just tossing out some seeds—it demands the right bird feeder tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

We’ll dive deep into the best bird feeders for Northern Cardinals, exploring their design, functionality, and effectiveness based on expert insights, user feedback, and hands-on testing.

We’ll also cover cardinal behavior, their preferred foods, and practical tips for creating a cardinal-friendly backyard.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this guide will help you choose the perfect feeder to transform your yard into a cardinal haven.

Why Northern Cardinals Are Special

Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) are medium-sized songbirds, measuring about 8.3 to 9.3 inches long with a wingspan of 9.8 to 12.2 inches.

Males are known for their brilliant red feathers and black facial mask, while females sport a softer reddish-brown hue with red accents.

Both genders have a strong, conical beak ideal for cracking seeds, and their songs a series of clear, whistled phrases like “what cheer, what cheer” add charm to any garden.

Cardinals are non-migratory, meaning they stay in their range year-round, making them reliable visitors if you provide the right conditions.

Cardinals are native to the eastern and central United States, southern Canada, and parts of Mexico. They thrive in diverse habitats, including backyards, forest edges, thickets, and suburban areas with dense shrubbery.

Their adaptability to human environments makes them a prime target for bird enthusiasts. However, their size, feeding habits, and shy nature mean not just any feeder will do.

Cardinals prefer spacious, stable feeders with wide perches and their favorite seeds, like black oil sunflower and safflower. Understanding their needs is key to selecting the best feeder.

Key Features of Cardinal-Friendly Feeders

Before diving into specific models, let’s outline what makes a bird feeder ideal for Northern Cardinals:

1. Spacious Perches: Cardinals are larger than many feeder birds (weighing about 1.5 ounces, roughly the weight of nine U.S. nickels). They need wide, sturdy perches to feel secure while feeding.
2. Open Design: Cardinals prefer to face their food directly, as their short necks limit head-turning. Platform or tray feeders mimic their natural ground-feeding behavior, while tube feeders with cardinal rings or wide trays are also effective.
3. Squirrel-Proofing: Squirrels love the same seeds cardinals do, so a feeder with weight-activated mechanisms or cages can prevent seed theft.
4. Weather Resistance: Feeders should protect seeds from rain and mold, as wet seeds can deter cardinals and pose health risks.
5. Easy Maintenance: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent disease. Feeders should be easy to disassemble and clean with a mild bleach solution.
6. Seed Compatibility: Cardinals favor black oil sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, cracked corn, and peanuts. Feeders should accommodate these without clogging or wasting seed.

With these criteria in mind, we’ve selected and reviewed the top bird feeders for Northern Cardinals, drawing on expert recommendations, user reviews, and testing insights from sources like Bob Vila, Bird Watching HQ, and National Geographic.

Top Bird Feeders for Northern Cardinals

1. Woodlink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder

Best Overall

Overview: The Woodlink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder is a hopper-style feeder designed to attract cardinals while deterring squirrels. With a 9-pound seed capacity, it’s ideal for yards with high bird traffic. Its durable metal construction and weight-activated perches make it a top choice for cardinal enthusiasts.

Features:

• Capacity: Holds up to 9 pounds of seed, reducing refill frequency.
• Squirrel-Proofing: Weight-sensitive perches close feeding ports under heavy animals like squirrels.
• Perches: Wide, sturdy perches accommodate cardinals’ size and allow multiple birds to feed simultaneously.
• Material: Powder-coated metal resists rust and UV damage.
• Ease of Use: Easy to fill via a lift-off lid and clean with a removable base.

Performance: In testing, this feeder attracted cardinals within hours of setup, thanks to its spacious perches and large seed capacity.

Cardinals were observed feeding comfortably, and the squirrel-proof mechanism effectively deterred pests.

The feeder’s ventilation system kept seeds dry, even during rain, though some users noted minor seed spillage during heavy winds.

Pros:

• High capacity for busy yards.
• Effective squirrel-proof design.
• Durable, weather-resistant construction.
• Wide perches perfect for cardinals.

Cons:

• Heavy when full, requiring a sturdy pole or hook.
• Slightly pricier than budget options.

Best For: Birders with large yards who want a durable, high-capacity feeder that attracts cardinals and resists squirrels.

2. Style Selections Hanging Hopper Bird Feeder

Best Budget Option

Overview: For those on a budget, the Style Selections Hanging Hopper Bird Feeder offers a cost-effective way to attract cardinals. This compact hopper feeder is easy to hang and provides ample perching space for medium-sized birds.

Features:

• Capacity: Holds up to 4 pounds of seed.
• Design: Hopper style with a sloped roof to protect seeds from rain.
• Perches: Wide perches on all sides for easy cardinal access.
• Material: Durable plastic with UV-resistant coating.
• Ease of Use: Simple to fill and clean with a removable tray.

Performance: Testers found this feeder attracted cardinals consistently when filled with black oil sunflower seeds. Its open design allowed cardinals to perch comfortably, though it lacked advanced squirrel-proofing, making it best for yards with minimal pest issues.

The plastic construction held up well in moderate weather but may fade over time in intense sunlight.

Pros:

• Affordable price point.
• Easy to set up and maintain.
• Suitable for small to medium yards.

Cons:

• Not squirrel-proof, requiring a baffle for pest-prone areas.
• Smaller capacity requires more frequent refills.

Best For: Budget-conscious birders looking for a reliable, no-frills feeder for cardinals.

3. Squirrel Buster Plus with Cardinal Ring

Best Tube Feeder

Overview: The Squirrel Buster Plus is a premium tube feeder with a removable cardinal ring, specifically designed to attract Northern Cardinals. Its squirrel-proof technology and adjustable perches make it a versatile choice for cardinal lovers.

Features:
-_tf1Capacity: Holds 5.1 pounds of seed.

• Squirrel-Proofing: Weight-activated perches close feeding ports under squirrel weight.
• Cardinal Ring: Circular perch allows cardinals to face food directly, mimicking their preferred feeding position.
• Material: Durable plastic and metal, rust-resistant.
• Ease of Use: Easy to fill and clean with a removable base.

Performance: This feeder earned high praise for attracting cardinals, with the cardinal ring providing a comfortable perch. The squirrel-proof mechanism worked well in testing, though raccoons occasionally posed a challenge. The feeder’s seed ventilation system kept seeds fresh, and its sturdy build withstood harsh weather.

Pros:

• Excellent squirrel-proof design.
• Cardinal ring enhances accessibility.
• Durable and weather-resistant.
• Adjustable perch settings for targeting cardinals.

Cons:

• Higher price point.
• Requires raccoon-proof mounting in some areas.

Best For: Birders seeking a high-quality tube feeder with cardinal-specific features and strong squirrel resistance.

4. Nature’s Way Cedar Platform Tray Feeder

Best Platform Feeder

Overview: Platform feeders are a natural fit for cardinals, who often feed on the ground. The Nature’s Way Cedar Platform Tray Feeder offers a spacious, open design that mimics their foraging habits, with a durable cedar construction for longevity.

Features:

• Capacity: Holds up to 2 pounds of seed.
• Design: Open platform with a perforated metal tray for drainage.
• Material: Cedar wood with a metal screen bottom.
• Ease of Use: Easy to fill and clean; can be placed on the ground, hung, or pole-mounted.
• Squirrel Resistance: Minimal, but a baffle can be added.

Performance: Cardinals flocked to this feeder in testing, appreciating the wide, open tray that allowed multiple birds to feed at once. The metal screen prevented seed from soaking in rain, though frequent refilling was needed due to the open design. Users reported high cardinal activity, especially when placed near shrubs for cover.

Pros:

• Mimics cardinals’ natural ground-feeding behavior.
• Durable cedar construction.
• Excellent drainage prevents mold.
• Versatile mounting options.

Cons:

• Not inherently squirrel-proof.
• Smaller capacity requires regular refills.

Best For: Birders who want a natural, open feeder that cardinals love, especially in low-squirrel areas.

5. Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper Squirrel-Proof Feeder

Best High-Tech Option

Overview: The Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper combines a tube feeder design with a motorized, weight-activated perch that spins to deter squirrels. Its large capacity and cardinal-friendly perches make it a high-tech choice for attracting redbirds.

Features:

• Capacity: Holds 5 pounds of seed.
• Squirrel-Proofing: Motorized perch spins under squirrel weight.
• Perches: Wide, circular perches suit cardinals’ feeding style.
• Material: UV-resistant polycarbonate and metal.
• Ease of Use: Wide mouth for easy filling; removable battery module for charging.

Performance: Testers noted frequent cardinal visits, with the circular perches allowing comfortable feeding. The motorized squirrel-proofing was highly effective, though the feeder requires overnight charging. Its durability and large capacity make it ideal for busy yards.

Pros:

• Innovative squirrel-proof technology.
• Large seed capacity.
• Durable and weather-resistant.
• Easy to maintain.

Cons:

• Expensive initial cost.
• Battery charging required.

Best For: Tech-savvy birders with squirrel-heavy yards who want a reliable, high-capacity feeder.

Cardinal Feeding Preferences

To maximize the effectiveness of these feeders, use the right food. Northern Cardinals prefer:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: High in fat and protein, with thin shells that cardinals can easily crack. These are a top choice for all feeders reviewed.
• Safflower Seeds: Less appealing to squirrels and bully birds like grackles, making them ideal for cardinal-focused feeding.
• Cracked Corn: A budget-friendly option that cardinals enjoy, especially in platform feeders.
• Peanuts and Suet: Crushed peanuts and small suet chunks attract cardinals, particularly in winter. Feeders with suet cages, like the Woodlink Heritage Farms model, are great for this.

Avoid small seeds like millet, as they’re less appealing to cardinals and attract smaller birds that may compete for space.

Tips for Attracting Cardinals

Beyond choosing the right feeder, consider these strategies to make your yard a cardinal hotspot:

1. Placement: Place feeders 10–12 feet from trees or shrubs to provide cover while reducing squirrel access. A height of 4–6 feet off the ground deters predators like cats.
2. Timing: Cardinals are most active at dawn and dusk, so ensure feeders are filled during these times.
3. Water Source: A birdbath or shallow water feature nearby attracts cardinals, especially in winter when water is scarce.
4. Shelter: Dense shrubs or evergreen trees provide nesting and hiding spots, making cardinals feel secure.
5. Cleanliness: Clean feeders every two weeks with a 10% bleach solution to prevent disease.
6. Squirrel Deterrence: Use baffles or weight-activated feeders to protect seeds, as squirrels compete for cardinals’ favorite foods.

Comparative Analysis

Here’s a quick comparison of the reviewed feeders:

Feeder	Type	Capacity	Squirrel-Proof	Best For
Woodlink Heritage Farms	Hopper	9 lbs	Yes	Busy yards, durability
Style Selections	Hopper	4 lbs	No	Budget buyers
Squirrel Buster Plus	Tube	5.1 lbs	Yes	Cardinal-specific design
Nature’s Way Cedar	Platform	2 lbs	No	Natural feeding style
Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper	Tube	5 lbs	Yes	Tech-savvy birders

 

The Woodlink Heritage Farms feeder stands out for its high capacity and robust squirrel-proofing, making it ideal for large yards.

The Style Selections model is perfect for budget-conscious beginners, while the Squirrel Buster Plus and Droll Yankees offer advanced features for cardinal-focused feeding.

The Nature’s Way platform feeder excels for mimicking cardinals’ natural habits but requires squirrel protection.

Practical Considerations

When choosing a feeder, consider your yard’s specific needs:

• Yard Size: Large yards benefit from high-capacity feeders like the Woodlink or Droll Yankees. Smaller yards may suit the Style Selections or Nature’s Way.
• Squirrel Presence: If squirrels are a problem, prioritize the Squirrel Buster or Yankee Flipper.
• Budget: The Style Selections feeder offers great value, while the Woodlink and Droll Yankees are investment pieces.
• Aesthetics: The Nature’s Way cedar feeder adds a rustic charm, while the Squirrel Buster’s sleek design fits modern yards.

User Feedback and Real-World Insights

User reviews highlight the effectiveness of these feeders for cardinals. The Woodlink Heritage Farms feeder is praised for its durability and cardinal attraction, with users noting frequent visits within days.

The Squirrel Buster’s cardinal ring is a hit among birders who want to target cardinals specifically.

The Nature’s Way platform feeder is a favorite for its simplicity and natural appeal, though some users add baffles for squirrel protection.

The Style Selections feeder is lauded for affordability but criticized for lacking squirrel resistance.

The Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper impresses with its motorized feature, though some find the battery charging inconvenient.

Conclusion

Attracting Northern Cardinals to your backyard is a rewarding endeavor, and the right bird feeder makes all the difference.

The Woodlink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder is our top pick for its large capacity, durability, and cardinal-friendly design.

Budget shoppers will appreciate the Style Selections Hanging Hopper, while tech enthusiasts may prefer the Droll Yankees Yankee Flipper.

The Squirrel Buster Plus excels for cardinal-specific features, and the Nature’s Way Cedar Platform Feeder is perfect for mimicking natural feeding habits.

To ensure success, fill your feeder with black oil sunflower or safflower seeds, place it near cover, and maintain it regularly.

With these feeders and tips, your yard will become a vibrant haven for Northern Cardinals, bringing their stunning color and song to your daily life. Happy birdwatching!