The Northern Cardinal is a widely recognized bird across North America, known for its striking plumage and cheerful song. Many people observe these vibrant birds in their backyards and often wonder about their dietary habits, particularly concerning common garden plants like holly. This often leads to questions about what these birds consume and what is safe for them.
The Truth About Holly Berries and Cardinals
Cardinals consume holly berries, especially during winter when other food sources become scarce. While not a primary or preferred food, they serve as an alternative when preferred options are unavailable. The berries persist on plants throughout winter, making them accessible during lean times. Cardinals might turn to holly berries out of necessity to gain energy.
Holly berries are less desirable for birds compared to other fruits. Despite this, cardinals do eat holly berries, demonstrating their adaptability in foraging when conditions are challenging.
Are Holly Berries Toxic to Cardinals?
Holly berries contain compounds like saponins, which are toxic to humans and some other animals. However, birds possess a different digestive physiology, allowing them to process these compounds without significant harm. Birds have a higher tolerance to certain plant toxins compared to mammals.
Occasional consumption of holly berries is not fatal for cardinals, though ingesting very large quantities might lead to mild digestive upset. While not a dietary staple, holly berries are safe for cardinals to consume in moderation, especially as a last resort.
A Cardinal’s Typical Diet
Northern Cardinals are omnivores with a diverse natural diet that varies with the seasons, primarily consisting of seeds, fruits, and insects. Their robust, conical beaks are specifically adapted for cracking open tough seed shells, making them efficient seed eaters. Black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds are particularly favored by cardinals and are common offerings at backyard bird feeders.
Beyond seeds, cardinals consume a variety of fruits and berries from native plants such as dogwood, sumac, hackberry, wild grapes, and mulberry. These fruits provide essential nutrients and hydration. During warmer months, insects form a significant portion of their diet, including beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders, which also serve as a crucial protein source for feeding their young. Cardinals forage low to the ground and in shrubs, searching for these diverse food sources year-round.