Northern Cardinals are some of the most striking birds you can attract to your backyard—especially with that iconic red plumage and their beautiful, clear whistle. But if you’ve ever tried to bring them in using just any feeder, you’ve probably noticed… they’re picky. They like their space, they don’t love awkward perches, and they absolutely will fly off if a squirrel starts hogging the buffet.
So what’s the best cardinal bird feeder?
In this guide, you’ll learn:
Top-rated cardinal bird feeders (based on expert tests and real-world use)
What cardinals need in a feeder (and why most feeders miss the mark)
The best feeder styles for their size and feeding habits
Which materials last through winter, squirrels, and raccoons
Understanding Cardinals’ Feeding Habits: Why Most Feeders Don’t Cut It
Cardinals aren’t just another backyard bird—they’re medium-sized songbirds (about 8–9 inches long) with some specific preferences. While finches and chickadees will hop onto any tiny perch or cling to a tube, cardinals are ground-feeders by nature and prefer more stable, spacious landing areas (BirdWatching).
That means feeders with wide platforms, sturdy ledges, or wraparound trays tend to work best.
They also don’t like twisting sideways to reach their food. This is a big reason why short-perch tube feeders are hit or miss—if the bird has to contort itself just to grab a sunflower seed, it’ll probably move on.
Key feeding traits of Northern Cardinals
Prefer facing their food on a stable perch or tray
Like to land confidently—no wobbly wires or swingy perches
Often feed in pairs or small groups, especially in winter
Enjoy seeds that are easy to crack with their powerful beaks—think black-oil sunflower, safflower, and striped sunflower (CornellLab).
Even the color of the feeder can play a role. Cardinals may be drawn to red-colored feeders, which possibly mimic the appearance of other cardinals and suggest a safe feeding territory (The Spruce, 2023).
In short: to attract cardinals regularly, you need a feeder designed around their size, posture, and seed preferences—not just something they can barely balance on.
Best Cardinal Bird Feeder Styles: What Works (and What Doesn’t)
Now that we know how cardinals prefer to feed, let’s break down the main types of feeders—what works well for them, and what to watch out for. There are plenty of options out there, but some are hands-down better for cardinals than others.
1. Platform Feeders (Also Called Tray Feeders)
If you want to make cardinals feel at home, this is your best bet. Platform feeders are essentially open trays that can be mounted or hung. Their biggest advantage? Plenty of space to perch and face the food naturally, just like cardinals would do on the ground.
In fact, cardinals are known to prefer tray-style feeders because they mimic their natural foraging behavior. Studies from the Cornell Lab’s Project FeederWatch note that cardinals are among the most common visitors to tray and platform-style feeders in North America.
Pros:
Cons:
Expert Tip: Choose a platform with a mesh bottom for drainage (to avoid moldy seed). If you want to reduce critter access, mount it on a pole with a raccoon baffle, and bring it in at night.
2. Hopper Feeders (House-Style Feeders)
Hopper feeders are another excellent choice for cardinals. These are the classic “birdhouse” shaped feeders that store a larger quantity of seed in a central bin and dispense it as the birds eat.
Cardinals love hopper feeders—especially the ones with a wide tray or large side ledge—because they offer some shelter, plus plenty of room to perch and face the food.
Pros:
Cons:
💡 Example: The Woodlink Absolute II Hopper Feeder holds up to 9 lbs of seed and has a spring-loaded perch bar that closes under a squirrel’s weight—a favorite in expert tests [Bob Vila, 2024].
3. Tube Feeders (Only If Cardinal-Friendly)
Tube feeders are vertical cylinders with multiple seed ports and perches. These are excellent for small songbirds like chickadees or goldfinches—but not all tube feeders are cardinal-friendly.
The issue? Most have tiny perches that are too short and unstable for cardinals. However, some manufacturers have solved this with add-on trays or “cardinal rings” that give birds a place to perch and face the seed.
Pros:
Cons:
Expert Tip: If you go the tube feeder route, consider the Brome Squirrel Buster Plus—it comes with a patented cardinal ring, chew-proof materials, and a lifetime warranty (BromeBirdCare.com).
4. Ground Feeders
Since cardinals are ground-feeding birds by nature, low platform feeders placed directly on the ground are incredibly attractive to them. These are usually simple trays with or without a cover.
Pros:
Cons:
💡 Example: The Amish-made ground platform feeder with roof is a top performer in field tests for attracting cardinals and keeping seed relatively dry (Bob Vila, 2024).
5. Window Feeders
If you’re looking for a close-up view of cardinals, a window-mounted feeder is hard to beat. These attach directly to glass with suction cups and let you watch the action from just inches away.
Cardinals will use window feeders if the tray is wide enough and the perch is stable.
Pros:
Cons:
💡 Pro pick: The Nature’s Hangout Window Feeder holds up to 4 cups of seed, has great drainage, and earns rave reviews for attracting cardinals and even woodpeckers [Amazon reviews; 4.5★ avg].
Best Cardinal Bird Feeder Materials: What Lasts, What Doesn’t
When it comes to cardinal bird feeders, looks aren’t everything. Sure, a cedar house-shaped feeder might look great in your yard, but if it starts cracking after one rough winter—or worse, if a raccoon tears it apart—it’s not going to keep your cardinals coming back.
So what materials should you actually trust?
Let’s break down the most common materials used in cardinal feeders and how they perform over time, especially under pressure from weather, wildlife, and daily use.
Wood (Like Cedar or Redwood)
Wooden feeders are a classic—and for good reason. They look great in almost any yard and can last a long time, if they’re made from something solid like cedar. Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and holds up pretty well in damp weather. Cardinals seem to like the roomier feel of wooden platform or hopper feeders too. They’re easy for them to land on, perch, and face their food, which they prefer.
The downside? Wood needs a little care. If water collects, mold and mildew can set in. And if you leave it out year-round without cleaning or sealing it once in a while, it’ll eventually crack or warp.
Verdict: Great if you love the natural look and don’t mind the occasional clean-up or reseal.
Metal (Steel, Aluminum, etc.)
If your squirrels treat bird feeders like a personal challenge, metal might be your best bet. A good powder-coated steel feeder won’t rust, won’t crack, and squirrels can gnaw on it all they want—it’s not going anywhere.
Metal’s also great in bad weather. It holds up to wind, ice, and heavy use. Some of the most squirrel-proof feeders on the market (like the Squirrel Buster line from Brome) rely heavily on metal construction for exactly that reason.
The downside? Metal feeders can get heavy, especially when full of seed. And in full sun, they can warm up a bit—but it usually doesn’t bother the birds.
👉 Good for you if: You’ve got squirrels, raccoons, or a rough climate, and you want something that’ll last more than just a season or two.
Recycled Plastic (Also Called Poly-Lumber)
This stuff is basically the superhero of feeder materials. It looks like wood, but it doesn’t rot, doesn’t warp, and doesn’t fade in the sun. It’s made from things like old milk jugs and lasts forever. I’ve had a platform feeder made from recycled plastic out through three winters and it still looks new.
It’s a little pricier up front, but honestly? Worth every penny. There’s almost no maintenance, and most feeders made with this material have a bit of weight to them, so they don’t swing around as much in the wind.
👉 Good for you if: You want something low-maintenance that can handle any season and still look good doing it.
Polycarbonate or Acrylic (The Good Kind of Plastic)
Not all plastic is junk. Some of the higher-end plastics—like the stuff used in tube feeders or window feeders—can actually be really durable. The key is making sure it’s UV-stabilized, so it won’t turn yellow or brittle in the sun.
This is the material used in feeders like the Squirrel Buster Plus, and in most of the better clear window feeders. It’s strong enough to hold up to regular use, and lightweight enough to hang or suction onto glass without any issues.
Still, if a squirrel gets determined enough, plastic parts are more vulnerable than metal. And if you’re in a climate with heavy snow or ice, cheaper plastic can crack when temps drop too low.
👉 Good for you if: You want a tube or window feeder and don’t have major squirrel wars in your yard.
So… What’s the Best Choice?
| Your Yard Has… | Best Material to Look For |
| Squirrels and raccoons? | All-metal or polycarbonate + metal |
| Tough winters or humid summers? | Cedar or recycled poly-lumber |
| Low-maintenance preference? | Recycled plastic or mesh steel |
| Want something natural-looking? | Cedar or faux-wood recycled plastic |
| You love close-up views from a window? | Acrylic (but high-quality only!) |
Pro Tip: No matter the material, look for feeders with good drainage, solid joinery (screws not staples), and a design that’s easy to disassemble and clean. That’s what keeps both the feeder—and your cardinals—coming back for years.
Cardinal Bird Feeder Brands You Can Actually Trust
If you’ve ever bought a cheap feeder that cracked after a few frosty mornings or got chewed through by squirrels in a week, you know that brand matters. Not every bird feeder out there is built to last—especially if you’re trying to keep squirrels and raccoons out and still make cardinals feel welcome.
Here are a few brands that I—and many other birders—actually trust. These companies have been around, their feeders work, and they don’t fall apart when things get messy (which they always do eventually).
Brome (Squirrel Buster series)
If you’ve spent more than five minutes looking at squirrel-proof feeders, you’ve probably come across Brome. Their Squirrel Buster Plus is one of the most famous feeders out there—for good reason. It’s tough, it works, and if anything breaks? They send you the replacement part. For free. Forever. That’s rare these days.
Their feeders are all about clever weight-triggered design and chew-proof materials. Plus, they’ve added things like a cardinal ring—a simple but smart detail that makes it easier for cardinals to perch and eat naturally.
Droll Yankees
Droll Yankees has been in the feeder game forever, and their stuff is built to last. The Big Top and X-1B hopper feeders are great if you want something roomy and visible—good options for cardinals.
They’re also the brand behind the Yankee Flipper (yes, the one that spins squirrels off the feeder). Gimmicky? Maybe. But also very effective. Most of their feeders come with a lifetime warranty, and you can tell the quality just by holding one.
Perky-Pet
This is probably the most widely available brand—you’ll see them at garden centers, hardware stores, and all over Amazon. Some of their feeders are pretty basic, but a few models stand out—like the Squirrel-Be-Gone II (a metal hopper with weight-triggered perch bars), and the Red Cardinal Mesh Feeder, which is all metal and bright red.
Just a heads up: the lower-cost plastic ones might not hold up as well in tough weather or against squirrels. Stick with their all-metal or No/No series if you want something that lasts.
Woodlink (Audubon Licensed)
Woodlink makes some solid, no-nonsense feeders. Their Heritage Farms hopper is a beast—big capacity, spring-loaded squirrel protection, and tough steel construction. You can hang it or mount it on a pole, and it just works.
They also make the Going Green series out of recycled plastic, which is great if you want something durable, weather-resistant, and more eco-conscious. Not flashy, but very reliable.
Nature’s Way
If you like the natural wood look, Nature’s Way makes some really nice feeders out of cedar. Their platform tray is especially good for cardinals—it’s open, roomy, and easy to clean. The materials are rot-resistant, the mesh bottoms drain well, and it doesn’t feel cheap. It’s also one of the more affordable “rustic” looking feeders that actually holds up.
A Few Other Names You Might See
Roamwild: Some clever squirrel-proof designs, but mixed reviews on durability.
Stokes Select / More Birds: Budget-friendly and decent quality, but not built like tanks.
Wild Birds Unlimited (WBU): Premium price, but good stuff if you’re buying in-store. Often rebranded feeders from companies like Brome or Aspects.
My take? If you want squirrel-proof and hassle-free, Brome is worth the money. If you want something natural and simple for a platform setup, Nature’s Way or Woodlink is a great choice. And if you just want something solid without spending a ton, look at Perky-Pet’s all-metal feeders.
Comparison Table of Top Cardinal Bird Feeders
| Feeder (Brand & Model) | Style | Materials | Capacity | Squirrel-Proof? | Price | Avg. Rating |
| Woodlink Heritage Farms Squirrel-Resistant Feeder | Hopper (1-sided) | Powder-coated metal | 9 lb (4 kg) | Yes – Weight-closed perch | $$$ (≈$85) | ★★★★½ (4.5/5) |
| Brome Squirrel Buster Plus w/ Cardinal Ring | Tube (hanging) | Polycarbonate & metal | 5.1 lb (2.3 kg) | Yes – Weight-activated ports | $$$$ (≈$90) | ★★★★¾ (4.7/5) |
| Nature’s Way Cedar Platform CWF3 Tray | Platform/Tray | Cedar wood & metal mesh | ~2 lb (open tray) | No – (Use baffle or pole) | $ (≈$20) | ★★★★¾ (4.7/5) |
| Perky-Pet Red Cardinal Mesh Feeder | Mesh tube/tray | All-metal (steel mesh) | 2.5 lb (1.1 kg) | No – (All-access design) | $ (≈$30) | ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) |
| Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone II Home Style | Hopper (house) | Metal (steel) | 8 lb (3.6 kg) | Yes – Weight-activated lid | $$ (≈$40) | ★★★★☆ (4.2/5) |
| Nature’s Hangout Window Feeder | Window (tray) | Clear acrylic plastic | ~4 cups (0.9 L) | Partial – (Window-mounted) | $$ (≈$30) | ★★★★¾ (4.6/5) |
The feeders we’ve covered here are all well-loved for good reason—they’ve been tested by real birders, earn strong reviews, and actually hold up in the yard. Whether you go for a sturdy metal hopper like the Woodlink or the cleverly engineered Brome Squirrel Buster Plus, you’re getting something that works. The Perky-Pet Squirrel-Be-Gone II is a good middle-ground option if you want something reliable without spending top dollar.
Now, if you’re leaning toward a platform or window feeder, just keep in mind they’re not squirrel-proof by design—so you’ll need to be smart about where and how you hang them. Add a baffle, choose a tough mounting pole, or bring them in at night if raccoons are a problem.
Mesh feeders? Cardinals love them. But so do squirrels. If you go that route, you’ll need to be the squirrel control—either by using baffles or placing the feeder strategically out of reach.
Before you make your pick, think about what your yard looks like:
Got a lot of squirrels? Go squirrel-proof.
Raccoons raiding at night? Consider a feeder you can bring in or one with a strong pole and big baffle.
Want to watch cardinals up close? Try a window feeder or low platform near a bushy area.
And maybe most importantly—think about your goals. Are you feeding just for cardinals? Want to welcome a variety of birds? Or maybe you just want to enjoy a few peaceful moments at the window every morning?
Whatever you choose, here’s what really matters:
Place your feeder somewhere cardinals feel safe—near trees or shrubs if you can.
Keep it clean and dry (no one likes moldy seed).
Use the right food—black-oil sunflower and safflower seeds are cardinal favorites.
With a good setup and a little patience, the cardinals will come. And once they start showing up, they’ll keep coming back—those pops of bright red, gentle songs, and calm presence can turn a regular backyard into something a little more magical.
Happy birding—and enjoy every cardinal visit!
