The Best Feeders for Cardinals

Cardinals are beautiful and sometimes demanding birds. They are worth the effort to attract them to your garden. We tested many feeders to find the 7 best options that reliably attract these bright red songbirds, despite challenges from squirrels and harsh weather.

🐦 7 Products Reviewed

Short Answer: The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus is our top choice for cardinals. Its Cardinal Ring, weather resistance, and squirrel-proof design make it stand out. There is a perfect feeder for every garden. Read on to find yours!

🏆 A Glance at Our Top 7 Picks

1. Brome Squirrel Buster Plus – Best Overall

2. Woodlink Going Green Platform – Best Platform

3. Perky-Pet Copper Panorama – Most Beautiful

4. Heritage Farms Absolute II – Best Hopper

5. Woodlink Deluxe Cedar Feeder – Best Cedar

6. Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Feeder – Best Budget

7. Kingsyard Dual-Use Metal Mesh – Most Versatile

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Cardinal Feeder Preferences

If you’ve ever had Northern Cardinals ignore your feeder, you understand the frustration. These birds are not picky; they simply have different needs than smaller songbirds.

About Northern Cardinals

• Size: Medium to large songbirds (Cardinalis cardinalis)

• Length: About 8–9 inches from bill to tail

• Feeding Habits: They prefer wide and stable perches.

Cardinals often forage on the ground. They like feeders that allow them to see their surroundings while they eat. They do not cling like finches or chickadees; they prefer to sit.

💡 What Cardinals Need in a Feeder

To attract cardinals, your feeder should have:

• Broad flat perches or tray-type platforms (minimum 6–8 inches wide)

• An open design to see predators

• Face-forward seed access (no sideways perches)

• Main fills like black oil sunflower seeds or safflower seeds

• Stability since they are heavier birds

• Weather protection to keep seeds dry

Now, let’s explore the seven feeders that meet these requirements.

Product Review #1: Best Overall

Brome Squirrel Buster Plus Wild Bird Seed Feeder

⭐ Editor’s Choice

We use the term “best overall” carefully. The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus has been a favorite for years. It has survived many squirrel challenges, keeping birds happy.

Key Features:

• Cardinal Ring: Turns a regular tube feeder into a cardinal-friendly feeder.

• Squirrel-Proofing: A weight-activated shroud blocks seed ports when heavier animals land on it.

• Easy to Clean: Unscrews at the base for complete access.

Specifications:

• Capacity: 5.1 lbs

• Material: RoxResin + metal

• Squirrel-Proof: Yes

• Seed Ports: 6

Pros:

• Included Cardinal Ring for easy perching

• Excellent squirrel-proofing

• Ventilated seed tube prevents mold

• Durable design with a lifetime guarantee

Cons:

• Higher price than budget options

• Cardinal Ring adds slight bulk

Price Range: $55–$70

View on Amazon ↗

Product Review #2: Best Platform Feeder

WG Green Recycled Platform Feeder By Woodlink

🌿 Eco Pick

A platform feeder is ideal for cardinals, and the Woodlink Going Green is a top choice. It mimics ground feeding, where cardinals feel most comfortable.

Key Features:

• Open, flat design for safe feeding.

• Dimensions: 12 × 12 inches for ample space.

• Material: Made of 90% recycled materials.

Specifications:

• Capacity: ~2 quarts

• Squirrel-Proof: No (baffle needed)

Pros:

• Open design allows visibility

• Drains quickly to keep seeds fresh

• Large size for multiple birds

• Eco-friendly construction

Cons:

• No built-in squirrel deterrent

• May attract ground-feeding pests

Price Range: $18–$28

View on Amazon ↗

Product Review #3: Most Beautiful Design

Perky-Pet Copper Panorama Bird Feeder

✨ Most Elegant

This feeder attracts cardinals and looks great in your yard. The Perky-Pet Copper Panorama is one of the most beautiful feeders we tested.

Key Features:

• Antique copper finish develops a lovely patina.

• 360-degree wraparound perch allows up to eight birds to eat at once.

Specifications:

• Capacity: ~2 lbs

• Material: Powder-coated steel

Pros:

• Stunning antique copper finish

• Supports multiple cardinals

• Transparent reservoir for easy seed level checks

Cons:

• Smaller capacity requires frequent refills

• Somewhat squirrel-proof

Price Range: $30–$45

View on Amazon ↗

With the right feeder, attracting cardinals to your garden can be a rewarding experience. Choose one that fits your space and style!

Product Review #4 : Best Hopper Feeder

Heritage Farms Absolute II Squirrel Resistant Bird Feeder

🔒 Best Squirrel-Proof

Hopper feeders are perfect for cardinals. The large trays on both sides provide a stable perch. Our top choice is the Heritage Farms Absolute II, especially in yards with squirrel problems.

Features

• Weight-sensitive perch: Closes seed access when anything heavier than a songbird lands.

• Adjustable sensitivity dial: Allows you to customize for your bird and pest mix.

• 12 pounds seed capacity: Ideal for busy yards, reducing frequent refills.

The feeder has wide trays so pairs of cardinals can eat together. Its all-metal construction feels solid, and the lid flips back for easy filling. You can also check seed levels through the polycarbonate windows. This feeder is great for serious cardinal watchers.

Specifications

• Capacity: 12 lbs

• Material: Powder-coated metal

• Squirrel-Proof: Yes (adjustable)

• Feeding Sides: Both sides

• Mount Options: Hang or pole

• Best For: High-traffic yards

Pros

• Great adjustable squirrel deterrent

• Large capacity means fewer refills

• Trays on both sides are perfect for cardinals

• Durable construction

• Easy seed level monitoring

Cons

• Heavier than tube designs

• More expensive than entry-level options

• Takes time to set up on a pole

Price Range

$60–$80 View on Amazon ↗

Product Review #5: Best Cedar Feeder

Deluxe Cedar Feeder with Suet Cages by Woodlink

🌲 Natural Choice

The Woodlink Deluxe Cedar Feeder is a classic. Made from kiln-dried red cedar, it resists warping and rot better than pine. It features:

• Polycarbonate windows: Shield seeds from rain while showing fill levels.

• Anodized aluminum hinges: Open smoothly and resist rust.

• 5 pounds seed capacity: Plus, it includes two suet cages for winter feeding.

This feeder can be hung or pole-mounted. It looks great in any garden and lasts for years with minimal maintenance.

Specifications

• Capacity: 5 lbs seed + 2 suet

• Material: Kiln-dried red cedar

• Suet Cages: 2 included

• Windows: Polycarbonate

• Mount Options: Hang or pole

• Best For: Year-round feeding

Pros

• Beautiful cedar construction

• Attracts winter cardinals with suet

• Seeds are protected from rain

• Durable and rot-resistant

• Rust-proof hinges

Cons

• No squirrel protection (requires a baffle)

• Cedar will weather naturally

• Harder to deep-clean than plastic designs

Price Range

$40–$55 View on Amazon ↗

Product Review #6: Best Budget Feeder

Red Cardinal Metal Mesh Feeder by Perky-Pet

💰 Best Value

You don’t need to spend a lot to attract cardinals. The Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Feeder is affordable and effective, priced under $25.

• Red color: Attracts cardinals.

• Circular mesh design: Holds about 2 pounds of seeds.

• 360° tray: Allows cardinals to eat from any side.

The feeder is made of rust-resistant zinc. It’s easy to fill and clean, making it perfect for beginners.

Specifications

• Capacity: ~2 lbs

• Material: Zinc-plated metal mesh

• Perch Style: 360° circular tray

• Squirrel-Proof: No

• Color: Cardinal red

• Best For: Budget + beginners

Pros

• Great price for quality

• Visually attracts cardinals

• Wide tray for bigger birds

• Rust-resistant

• Easy to use

Cons

• Small capacity means frequent refills

• No squirrel deterrent

• Mesh can hold wet seeds in heavy rain

Price Range

$18–$26 View on Amazon ↗

Product Review #7: Most Versatile

Kingsyard Two-in-One Metal Mesh Feeder with Dome

🔄 Most Versatile

The Kingsyard Dual-Use Feeder is designed to solve common issues with cardinal feeding. Its weatherproof dome keeps seeds dry, and it has:

• Two compartments: Offer different seeds for various birds.

• Chew-proof metal construction: Durable for long-term use.

The wide feeding tray is comfortable for cardinals. This feeder is great for yards with many bird types.

Specifications

• Capacity: ~2.5 lbs (dual)

• Material: All-metal

• Dome: Weatherproof included

• Compartments: 2 (separate seeds)

• Squirrel-Proof: Partial (metal build)

• Best For: Multi-species yards

Pros

• Seeds stay protected in any weather

• Raised compartments prevent competition

• Durable construction

• Comfortable perch for cardinals

• Easy to refill

Cons

• Smaller capacity when split between seeds

• Not 100% squirrel-proof

• Dome limits some overhead space

Price Range

$28–$38 View on Amazon ↗

Side-by-Side Comparison of Cardinal Feeders

Not sure which feeder fits your situation? Use this table to compare all seven picks across the factors that matter most for cardinal feeding success.

Why Choose a Tray-Based Feeder?

Consider a tray-based feeder for these reasons:

• Easy Access: Cardinals can easily perch and feed.

• Multiple Brands: Options like Perky-Pet and Kingsyard are popular.

What Type of Cardinal Feeder to Use in Your Yard

The comparison table helps, but the “right” feeder depends on your needs. Here’s a quick guide.

Do You Have Persistent Squirrels?

If squirrels empty your feeders daily, invest in a squirrel-proof feeder. The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus and Heritage Farms Absolute II are great choices. If you want something different, consider the Woodlink platform or cedar models.

What Are You Refilling For?

If you’re traveling or dislike chores, go for a larger feeder like the Heritage Farms Absolute II with a 12-pound limit. Smaller, 2-pound feeders work well for casual birders since they’re easy to refill.

What’s Your Yard Like?

• Open garden: The Perky-Pet Copper Panorama adds beauty.

• Heavily wooded area: The Kingsyard Dual-Use Feeder works great.

• Suburban yard with squirrels: Choose the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus.

Are You Feeding in Winter?

Winter feeding is crucial for cardinals. Reliable food can double their survival rates. The Woodlink Deluxe Cedar with suet is ideal for winter feeding as it provides energy during cold months.

Best Seeds for Cardinal Feeders

• Black oil sunflower seeds: The gold standard; high fat and easy to crack.

• Safflower seeds: Less attractive to squirrels.

• Striped sunflower seeds: Thicker shell; harder to crack.

• White proso millet: Best in platform feeders.

• Cracked corn: Use as filler, but not the main seed.

Avoid cheap mixes: Fillers like milo, wheat, or oats are not worth it.

How to Get Cardinals to Visit Your Feeder

Placement and habits are key. Follow these tips:

Placement is Everything

Put your feeder 10–15 feet from shrubs or trees for security. This allows cardinals to escape quickly if needed.

Keep It Consistent

Cardinals thrive on routine. Refill your feeder often, especially from late fall to early spring.

Keep It Clean

Clean your feeder every 2–4 weeks with a 9:1 water-to-bleach ratio. Rake up discarded seed regularly to prevent health hazards.

Add a Nearby Water Source

A nearby birdbath will attract more cardinals. Moving water is especially enticing.

Reduce Window Collision Risk

To prevent collisions, place feeders either more than 30 feet away or within 3 feet of windows.

Our Verdict

The Brome Squirrel Buster Plus is the best choice for most yards. It’s durable and effective against squirrels.

If you’re on a budget, try the Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Mesh Feeder. It attracts cardinals reliably and pairs well with a pole baffle.

For visual appeal, the Perky-Pet Copper Panorama is stunning in any garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Style Feeder is Ideal for Attracting Northern Cardinals?

Wide platform feeders are best for simulating ground feeding. Tube feeders can also work, but only if they have a cardinal ring or a wide tray.

What Seeds to Put in a Cardinal Feeder?

Black oil sunflower seeds are the top choice as cardinals love them the most. Safflower seeds are a good second option. Avoid filler seeds like milo, wheat, or oats.

How Do I Keep Squirrels from Getting into My Cardinal Feeder?

Use a weight-sensitive feeder like the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus. Place feeders about 5 feet high on a smooth pole with a baffle, and consider using safflower seeds instead of sunflower seeds.

How Do I Get a Cardinal to Come to My Bird Feeder?

Position the feeder 5 to 6 feet off the ground and 10 to 15 feet from nearby shrubs. Avoid placing feeders directly on flat ground.

How Often Should I Wash My Bird Feeder?

Clean your bird feeder every 2 to 4 weeks. Use a 9:1 bleach solution, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before refilling. Regularly rake up leftover seed hulls.