How to Make a Simple Bird Feeder to Attract and Observe Cardinals:

This winter, as the chilly breeze swept through our backyard, we noticed a lack of songbirds. The usual melodies that filled the air were missing, and our garden felt strangely silent. Inspired to bring back the birds, my son Neil and I decided to create a bird feeder. Using an empty water bottle and a couple of plastic spoons, we crafted a simple yet effective feeder. We filled it with canary, parakeet, and finch food, hoping to attract some feathered friends.

At first, there were no birds in sight, but then, to our delight, a gorgeous red cardinal came to peck at the seeds! Seeing this vibrant bird from our window was an exciting moment for Neil, who thought it was pretty cool. This encounter sparked our curiosity about the northern cardinal, leading us to learn more about this beautiful bird.

The Cardinal in Texas

The northern cardinal, scientifically known as Cardinalis cardinalis, is a mid-sized perching songbird found throughout North America. Its range extends from southern Canada through the eastern United States to Mexico and Guatemala. The bird is particularly abundant in Texas, where it has a special place in the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Historical Significance

The northern cardinal has long been admired for its striking plumage and melodious song. Native American tribes considered the cardinal a symbol of vitality and warmth, believing that seeing a cardinal was a sign of good luck and a positive omen. In many cultures, the cardinal is also associated with the souls of departed loved ones, symbolizing their presence and bringing comfort to those who spot the bird.

In Texas, the cardinal is a common sight, thriving in a variety of habitats from urban gardens to dense woodlands. The bird’s resilience and adaptability have made it a beloved species, and its vibrant red color adds a splash of beauty to the Texan landscape.

The Life Cycle and Reproduction of the Northern Cardinal

Understanding the life cycle of the northern cardinal offers insight into its behaviors and the challenges it faces throughout the year.

Courtship and Mating

The courtship of northern cardinals is a fascinating display of affection and cooperation. During the mating season, which begins in early spring, male cardinals use their bright red plumage to attract females. They engage in elaborate courtship behaviors, such as singing to potential mates and feeding them beak-to-beak. This feeding behavior, known as mate feeding, helps strengthen the bond between the pair.

Nesting

Once a pair has bonded, they work together to build a nest. The female typically chooses the nesting site, which is often located in dense shrubs or low trees. The nest is constructed using twigs, grass, and other plant materials, and is lined with softer substances like feathers and moss. It takes about three to nine days for the pair to complete the nest.

Egg Laying and Incubation

The female lays a clutch of three to four eggs, which are pale blue or greenish with brown speckles. She incubates the eggs for about 11 to 13 days while the male provides food and protection. During this period, the female rarely leaves the nest, ensuring the eggs remain warm and safe.

Raising the Young

After the eggs hatch, both parents are actively involved in feeding the chicks. The young cardinals are fed a diet of insects, which provide the necessary protein for their growth. The chicks fledge about 10 to 11 days after hatching but remain dependent on their parents for food and protection for a few more weeks. During this time, the parents continue to feed them while teaching them essential survival skills.

Molting and Maturity

As the young cardinals grow, they undergo molting, where they shed their juvenile feathers and develop their adult plumage. Males acquire their bright red feathers, while females develop a more subdued reddish-brown color. By the end of the summer, the young cardinals are fully independent and capable of starting their own families the following spring.

Diet and Feeding Habits

The diet of the northern cardinal is diverse, reflecting its adaptability to various environments.

Granivorous Diet

Cardinals are primarily granivorous, meaning they feed on seeds and grains. Their strong, conical beaks are perfectly adapted for cracking open seeds of various sizes. Common seeds in their diet include sunflower seeds, millet, and safflower seeds. In the wild, they forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often visiting bird feeders in residential areas.

Insectivorous Behavior

In addition to seeds, cardinals also consume a significant amount of insects, especially during the breeding season. Insects provide the necessary protein for growing chicks. Cardinals feed on beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and spiders. This insectivorous behavior helps control pest populations, benefiting the ecosystem.

Fruit Consumption

Cardinals also enjoy fruits, particularly during the fall and winter months when other food sources may be scarce. They eat a variety of berries, including blackberries, mulberries, and elderberries. The consumption of fruits aids in seed dispersal, contributing to the propagation of various plant species.

Where and When to Observe Northern Cardinals

Observing northern cardinals can be a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts. Here are some tips on where and when to find these vibrant birds.

Habitat

Northern cardinals are highly adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands. They are commonly seen in suburban areas, where they visit bird feeders and nest in dense vegetation. Cardinals prefer areas with plenty of cover, such as thickets and bushes, where they can hide from predators and build their nests.

Seasonal Behavior

Cardinals are year-round residents in most of their range, including Texas. They do not migrate, making them a constant presence in their chosen habitats. However, their behavior may vary with the seasons. During the spring and summer, cardinals are more active and vocal, especially during the breeding season. In the fall and winter, they form loose flocks and may be seen foraging together.

Best Time of Day

Cardinals are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. These are the best times to observe their feeding and singing behaviors. During the midday heat, cardinals are less active and may retreat to shaded areas to rest.

DIY Bird Feeder: A Simple Craft for Attracting Cardinals

Creating a bird feeder is a fun and educational activity that can attract cardinals and other birds to your yard. Here’s a super simple bird feeder project using a plastic bottle and two plastic spoons.

Materials Needed

• 1 empty plastic water bottle
• 2 plastic spoons
• Scissors or a craft knife
• Birdseed (canary, parakeet, and finch food works well)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bottle: Rinse out the plastic bottle and remove any labels. Ensure it is clean and dry before proceeding.
2. Cut Holes for the Spoons: Using scissors or a craft knife, carefully cut two small holes on opposite sides of the bottle, about 2 inches from the bottom. These holes should be just big enough for the handles of the spoons to fit through snugly.
3. Insert the Spoons: Insert the plastic spoons through the holes, with the spoon bowls sticking out of the bottle. The spoons will act as perches and seed dispensers. Ensure the spoons are securely in place and level.
4. Create Feeding Ports: Cut small holes just above each spoon, allowing seeds to spill onto the spoon bowls. These holes should be slightly larger than the size of the seeds to ensure a steady flow of food.
5. Fill the Feeder: Unscrew the bottle cap and fill the bottle with birdseed. Replace the cap securely.
6. Hang the Feeder: Use string or wire to hang the feeder from a tree branch or hook in your garden. Choose a location that is visible from a window, so you can enjoy watching the birds visit.

Enjoying the Feeder

Once the feeder is in place, it won’t take long for birds to discover it. Keep an eye out for cardinals and other songbirds as they come to feed. Remember to refill the feeder regularly and clean it periodically to prevent mold and disease.

Our journey into the world of the northern cardinal has been both educational and delightful. From creating a simple bird feeder with Neil to observing these beautiful birds up close, we have gained a deeper appreciation for the wildlife around us. The northern cardinal is not only a stunning bird but also a vital part of the ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and insect control.

Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or a curious beginner, the northern cardinal offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature. By providing food, water, and shelter, you can attract these vibrant birds to your garden and enjoy their presence year-round.

We hope our nature study inspires you to explore the wonders of the northern cardinal and perhaps create your own bird feeder!