The Northern Cardinal, with its distinctive red plumage and melodious song, is a familiar sight across North American landscapes. This widespread songbird often graces backyards, parks, and natural areas, captivating observers with its vibrant appearance. Understanding the dietary habits of the Northern Cardinal offers insights into its ecological role and provides guidance for those wishing to welcome these birds into their gardens.
Wild Foraging Habits
In their natural habitats, Northern Cardinals exhibit diverse foraging behaviors, primarily consuming seeds, fruits, and insects. They possess strong, cone-shaped beaks well-suited for cracking open various types of seeds. Common wild seeds in their diet include those from sunflowers, safflowers, and a variety of weed species such as smartweed, ragweed, and foxtail.
Cardinals also consume wild fruits and berries, especially when seeds are less abundant. They forage on berries from dogwood, wild grape, sumac, and hackberry plants. Their diet incorporates insect protein during warmer months. They seek out beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders among foliage and on the ground, contributing to natural pest control.
Backyard Feeder Favorites
For many who wish to attract these striking birds, backyard feeders can be quite successful. Northern Cardinals show a strong preference for black oil sunflower seeds, often choosing them over other options. The thin shells of black oil sunflower seeds make them easy for cardinals to crack open, providing a high-fat energy source.
Beyond sunflower seeds, cardinals also consume safflower seeds, which squirrels and other birds often avoid. Cracked corn and shelled peanuts are additional favored items at feeders. Suet, particularly during colder months, provides essential fats and calories. Platform or hopper feeders are ideal, as cardinals prefer to perch on a stable surface while eating.
Seasonal and Young Cardinal Diets
The Northern Cardinal’s diet adapts throughout the year, reflecting seasonal availability and physiological needs. During spring and summer, especially the breeding season, insect consumption increases. This higher protein intake is important for breeding adults, supporting egg production and raising young.
Young cardinals, or fledglings, have a specialized diet primarily insects provided by their parents. This protein-rich diet supports their rapid growth and development, enabling them to gain strength and plumage. As they mature, young cardinals gradually transition from an insect-heavy diet to one that resembles the adult diet of seeds and fruits.