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Best Bird Seed For Cardinals And Blue Jays (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for bird seed that is perfect for cardinals and blue jays, then you have come to the right place. Attracting these beautiful birds to your backyard can be an amazing sight to see. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the right bird seed for these birds.

Firstly, you need to consider the quality of the birdseed. When buying birdseed, make sure that the seeds are fresh, and the mix includes the right variety of seeds to attract cardinals and blue jays. Ensure that the birdseed contains no additives, chemicals, or preservatives that can potentially harm these birds.

Secondly, consider the size of the seeds. Birds of various sizes, including cardinals and blue jays, require different seeds. Cardinals, for instance, love sunflower seeds, whereas blue jays enjoy larger seeds like peanuts. Therefore, check the package to see if the seeds are suitable for these birds.

Lastly, you may be wondering why these birds are so special. How can you entice them to your yard? What birdseed mixtures are the most nutritious for them? By answering these questions, you can make the most out of your bird-watching experience. With the right birdseed, you can create a bird-friendly environment that will encourage cardinals and blue jays to stick around.

So, are you ready to watch these amazing birds in action? Look no further. With the right birdseed mix, you can attract these birds and enjoy watching them up close.

10 Best Bird Seed For Cardinals And Blue Jays

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for feeding wild birds such as woodpeckers, cardinals, siskins, sparrows, and more.
2
This product is ideal for outdoor bird feeding and can hold up to 4.4 pounds of seed, while also being squirrel-proof.
3
This bird food is ideal for providing nutrition and variety to wild birds.
4
This product is ideal for feeding wild birds and keeping squirrels away while holding a large seed capacity.
5
The product is ideal for feeding wild birds with a mix of high-quality seeds in a convenient 17-pound bag.
6
This product is ideal for feeding and attracting various wild bird species in outdoor garden areas.
7
Kaytee Wild Bird Black Oil Sunflower Food is ideal for feeding wild birds who love sunflower seeds.
8
Ideal for feeding blue jays, cardinals and tropical birds with a larger opening for peanuts, sunflower seeds and bird food mix.
9
The product is ideal for feeding wild birds with a seed blend that attracts different types of bird species.
10
This product is ideal for outdoor bird feeding and viewing, with strong suction cups and a clear acrylic design.
This product is ideal for feeding wild birds such as woodpeckers, cardinals, siskins, sparrows, and more.
This product is ideal for outdoor bird feeding and can hold up to 4.4 pounds of seed, while also being squirrel-proof.
This bird food is ideal for providing nutrition and variety to wild birds.
This product is ideal for feeding wild birds and keeping squirrels away while holding a large seed capacity.
The product is ideal for feeding wild birds with a mix of high-quality seeds in a convenient 17-pound bag.
This product is ideal for feeding and attracting various wild bird species in outdoor garden areas.
Kaytee Wild Bird Black Oil Sunflower Food is ideal for feeding wild birds who love sunflower seeds.
Ideal for feeding blue jays, cardinals and tropical birds with a larger opening for peanuts, sunflower seeds and bird food mix.
The product is ideal for feeding wild birds with a seed blend that attracts different types of bird species.
This product is ideal for outdoor bird feeding and viewing, with strong suction cups and a clear acrylic design.

1. Wild Bird Nut & Berry Suet Cakes – 12 Pack

Blue Seal suet cakes are the perfect food for birds, providing the necessary energy for reproduction in spring and warmth in winter. The cakes are nutritionally rich and attract a variety of birds including Woodpeckers, Cardinals, Siskins, Sparrows, Juncos, Blue Jays, Nuthatches, Chickadees, Titmice, and the Northern Flicker. The suet cakes come in a range of flavors that birds love and are easy to open with no mess. The melt-resistant formula ensures that there is no mess to clean up, and the packaging is 100% recyclable, making it environmentally friendly. The products are made in the USA and come with a reputation for high-quality feeds for poultry and livestock.

The suet cakes are designed to work with all suet feeders, and the no-melt nuts & berry suet cake formula is perfect for year-round feeding. Please note that suet placement, environment, and geographic location will impact the variety of birds attracted. Whether you are a seasoned bird-lover or a beginner, Blue Seal suet cakes will attract a variety of birds to your yard and keep them well-fed and happy.

Pros

  • Provides necessary energy for reproduction and warmth
  • Nutritionally rich and attracts a variety of birds
  • Melt-resistant formula with no mess
  • Easy to open packaging that is 100% recyclable
  • Designed to work with all suet feeders
  • Perfect for year-round feeding

2. Wild Bird Feeder With Squirrel Protection.

The Large Capacity Rectangle Bird Feeder is the perfect addition to any backyard or garden. Measuring 11×5.5×20 inches, it features a sturdy 360° perch with ladder-style perches that offer comfort to birds. The feeder also boasts 6 ports and an automatic refill system that ensures birds always have access to food. The retractable and adjustable design allows for expansion to hold up to 4.4 pounds of seeds, and attracts a variety of bird sizes for 360 degree feeding. Made of super strong anti-rust powder coated metal, this gazebo design bird feeder is built to last and is squirrel proof. Its smooth inclined roof prevents seeds from getting wet and deters squirrels from accessing the food.

The bird feeder is easy to use and clean. It has a large opening for easy filling, emptying, and cleaning. Simply unscrew the lid with the top bird clip lock, fill the bird seeds, cover the lid, and hang the bird feeder on a hook or tree. It is versatile and can be hung in the backyard, garden, deck, balcony, or front porch, making it the perfect gift for any bird lover.

Pros

  • Large capacity with 6 ports and a sturdy 360° perch
  • Retractable and adjustable design allows for expansion to hold up to 4.4 pounds of seeds
  • Squirrel proof design with a smooth inclined roof to prevent seeds from getting wet
  • Easy to use and clean with a large opening and top bird clip lock
  • Versatile and can be hung in various locations

Cons

  • – None

3. Wild Delight 366200 20-Pound Nut N-Berry Birdfood, 20 Lb

Looking for a premium bird food that can attract a variety of songbirds to your backyard? Look no further than this 20-pound bag of advanced formula bird food. Unlike other brands, this bird food contains no fillers, ensuring that every seed is packed with nutrients that birds love. The mix is specially formulated to attract a wide range of birds, including songbirds, woodpeckers, cardinals, finches, titmice, jays, grosbeaks, buntings, nuthatches and chickadees, making it a great choice for any bird lover.

One of the key ingredients in this bird food is sunflower kernels, which are a favorite among many types of birds. The mix also contains peanuts, pistachios, cherries, and raisins, all of which are packed with vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes that birds need to stay healthy and happy. Whether you're an avid bird watcher or just looking to attract more birds to your backyard, this premium bird food is an excellent choice.

With a 20-pound size, this bird food is also a great value. It will last for months, so you can enjoy watching birds in your backyard without having to constantly refill your feeder. Whether you're a seasoned bird watcher or just starting out, this advanced formula bird food is sure to attract a wide range of beautiful birds to your backyard.

Pros

  • Contains no fillers
  • Specially formulated to attract a wide range of birds
  • Packed with sunflower kernels, peanuts, pistachios, cherries, raisins, vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes
  • 20-pound size is a great value and will last for months

4. Wilderness Mesh Bird Feeder – Squirrel Proof

The Squirrels Resistant Metal Bird Feeder is an excellent option for bird lovers. Made entirely of iron mesh, this birdfeeder is waterproof and rustproof, ensuring that it will last for a long time. It features a bird clip lock system that prevents animals from opening the lid, keeping your seeds safe from squirrels and large birds. The feeder is designed to foil these animals without harming them in any way.

This birdfeeder is also easy to fill and clean. It comes apart easily without requiring any tools, and the wide opening and detachable lid with a polished surface make filling and cleaning a breeze. The feeder is designed to attract a variety of bird species, depending on the type of seed you use. The tube bird feeder seed tray, six perches, and hollow grid allow multiple birds to dine from every angle simultaneously without creating bird traffic.

Additionally, this birdfeeder has a large capacity for outdoor hanging. It can hold up to 6.2 lbs of mixed seed, so you don't need to constantly refill it. The feeder's dimensions are 11*11*20.5 inches, making it a good size for any backyard.

One of the best features of this birdfeeder is its ability to keep the seeds fresh. The cardinal bird feeder has a large metal proof and bottom drainage holes to keep the bird seed dry. The mesh ventilation feature also helps to keep the bird seed fresh for longer periods of time.

Pros

  • Made of iron mesh, waterproof and rustproof
  • Bird clip lock system prevents animals from opening the lid
  • Easy to fill and clean
  • Designed to attract a variety of bird species
  • Large capacity for outdoor hanging
  • Keeps seeds fresh with metal proof and bottom drainage holes

5. Meadow Ridge Farms Deluxe Cardinal Bird Seed Mix, 17-Pound Bag

Indulge your feathered friends with this premium quality birdseed that is blended and bagged daily in Delano, Minnesota using the finest ingredients. The locally sourced seed mix is prepared with utmost care to ensure that birds get only the freshest and most nutritious food. This birdseed is a magnet for a variety of birds including Black-Capped Chickadee, House Finch, Purple Finch, Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, White-Breasted Nuthatch, Red-Breasted Nuthatch, Common Redpoll, Pine Grosbeak, Evening Grosbeak, Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Rock Dove, and Gray Jay.

This birdseed is a perfect blend of sunflower, safflower, peanut parts, and sunflower hearts. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that help birds stay energized and maintain healthy feathers. Safflower seeds are high in antioxidants that boost the immune system of birds. Peanut parts and sunflower hearts are highly nutritious and provide essential nutrients that birds need for their overall well-being.

This birdseed is a great choice for bird lovers who care about the quality of the food they offer to their feathered friends. The locally sourced and blended birdseed is an excellent way to attract a diverse range of birds to your backyard and provide them with the nutrition they need to thrive.

Pros

  • Locally blended and bagged daily using the highest quality products
  • Indulge your feathered friends with premium quality birdseed
  • A perfect blend of sunflower, safflower, peanut parts, and sunflower hearts
  • Rich source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that help birds stay energized and maintain healthy feathers
  • High in antioxidants that boost the immune system of birds
  • Highly nutritious and provide essential nutrients that birds need for their overall well-being
  • Attracts a variety of birds including Black-Capped Chickadee, House Finch, Purple Finch, Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, White-Breasted Nuthatch, Red-Breasted Nuthatch, Common Redpoll, Pine Grosbeak, Evening Grosbeak, Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Rock Dove, and Gray Jay

6. Hanging Bird Feeder – Squirrel Proof & Spacious.

The all-metal structure of this bird feeder is heavy-duty, preventing squirrels from chewing and destroying it. The bird shape sure-lock on top keeps squirrels or other animals from lifting the lid and gaining access to the seed reservoir. The powder-coated surface of the feeder adds durability to it. The feeder has a large capacity and can hold up to 4 lbs of bird feed. You can fill it with a variety of seeds, such as peanuts, cracked corn, dry mealy worms, hulled sunflower, pumpkin seed, black oil sunflower seeds, and safflower seeds to attract birds with different preferences, such as cardinals, finches, blue jay, titmouse, warblers, starlings, sparrows, songbird and more! The wide opening and detachable lid make it easy to fill and clean, and the collapsible metal mesh feeder allows for easy cleaning and storage. The practical gazebo design of the feeder features an inclined roof to shade birds from the sun and rain. The metal wire shroud and bottom drainage holes design promote ventilation and keep the seed dry. The circular tray lets multiple birds perch around and eat at the same time, increasing your bird traffic. This bird feeder is a beautiful decoration for your garden or yard and a great gardening gift for the elderly, children, and all bird lovers to enjoy bird watching fun. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact customer service for assistance.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty all-metal structure prevents squirrels from chewing and destroying the feeder.
  • Large capacity of up to 4 lbs of bird feed and can hold a variety of seeds to attract different types of birds.
  • Easy to fill and clean with a wide opening and detachable lid.
  • Collapsible metal mesh feeder allows for easy cleaning and storage.
  • Practical gazebo design features an inclined roof to shade birds from the sun and rain.
  • Metal wire shroud and bottom drainage holes design promote ventilation and keep the seed dry.
  • Circular tray allows for multiple birds to perch and eat at the same time, increasing bird traffic.
  • Beautiful decoration for your garden or yard and a great gardening gift for the elderly, children, and all bird lovers to enjoy bird watching fun.
  • Customer service is available for any questions or concerns you may have.

Cons

  • – Not 100% squirrel-proof as squirrels may still be able to climb up.

7. Kaytee Wild Bird Black Oil Sunflower Food, 5 Pounds

Kaytee Black Oil Sunflower is an excellent choice for bird lovers who want to attract a wide variety of wild birds to their backyard. This single grain is known for its high oil content, which provides birds with the necessary year-round energy they need to thrive. It is particularly appealing to smaller songbirds such as Cardinals and Chickadees.

One of the benefits of Kaytee Black Oil Sunflower is that it has thinner hulls, which make it easier for birds to eat. This means that even the smaller birds can enjoy the benefits of this bird food. And with its 5-pound bag, you can provide plenty of food for your feathered friends.

One of the best things about Kaytee Black Oil Sunflower is that it is made in the USA. This means that you can trust the quality of the product and feel good about supporting American-made products.

Pros

  • Attracts a wide variety of wild birds
  • High oil content provides birds with year-round energy
  • Thinner hulls make it easier for birds to eat
  • Comes in a 5-pound bag
  • Made in the USA

8. Blue Jay & Tropical Bird Feeder Duo

The Keyfit Tools Blue Jay Feeder is the perfect way to attract larger birds like blue jays and cardinals to your backyard. With a larger opening of 1.15" x 1.25", this feeder is designed for feeding peanuts, sunflower seeds, and tropical bird food mix.

This feeder features two tiered chambers to keep nuts separate and organized. The larger capacity of the two chambers allows for more food to be placed in the feeder at once, so you won't have to refill it as often.

The Keyfit Tools Blue Jay Feeder is constructed with high-quality materials to withstand the elements and last for years to come. It is easy to clean and fill, making it a great addition to any bird lover's backyard.

Enjoy watching larger birds flock to your backyard with the Keyfit Tools Blue Jay Feeder.

Pros

  • Larger opening for feeding peanuts, sunflower seeds, and tropical bird food mix
  • Two tiered chambers to keep nuts separate and organized
  • Large capacity for more food to be placed in the feeder at once
  • Constructed with high-quality materials to withstand the elements and last for years to come
  • Easy to clean and fill

9. Feathered Friend Flyers' Choice Wild Bird Seed, 40 Lb.

Bring a variety of colorful birds to your backyard with this high-protein birdseed mix. This mix is specially designed to attract cardinals, evening grosbeaks, and blue jays, among other birds. With sunflower making up over 50 percent of the mix, you can be sure that your feathered friends will be getting the nutrition they need.

This mix contains a variety of seeds, including white millet, sunflower kernel, striped sunflower, black oil sunflower, and safflower seeds. Each type of seed provides a unique benefit to the birds that visit your backyard. White millet is a favorite of ground-feeding birds, while black oil sunflower seeds are high in fat and provide a great source of energy for birds that need it. Safflower seeds are perfect for attracting cardinals, while striped sunflower seeds are a favorite of woodpeckers.

Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or just looking to bring a little more nature into your backyard, this birdseed mix is a great choice. With its high-protein content and variety of seeds, you'll be able to attract a wide range of birds and keep them coming back for more.

Pros

  • Designed to attract a variety of colorful birds
  • Contains more than 50 percent sunflower for high-protein nutrition
  • Mix includes a variety of seeds to cater to different bird species

10. Clear View Window Bird Feeder

Enjoy the beauty of nature from the comfort of your own home with this transparent bird feeder. Designed to hold up to 3 cups of seed, the tray locks in place to securely hold a variety of birds, including cardinals, blue jays, finches, and more. The completely see-through design allows for vivid detail of each bird's unique features and behaviors.

Unlike other feeders that come with only 3 suction cups, this feeder includes 4 extra strong suction cups to ensure a longer-lasting attachment to your kitchen window. Initial setup is easy with no need for frequent repositioning.

Crafted from heavy-duty and shatterproof acrylic, this feeder is built to withstand diverse weather conditions for many seasons to come. Its durability ensures that you can continue to enjoy bird watching year-round.

This feeder makes for a perfect gift for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, curious children, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors. It is a thoughtful and unique gift option for holidays, birthdays, or housewarming.

Made with top-quality materials, this feeder not only looks great, but also offers superior viewing and long-lasting performance.

Pros

  • Holds up to 3 cups of seed for a variety of bird species
  • Transparent design allows for vivid detail of birds
  • Includes 4 extra strong suction cups for longer-lasting attachment
  • Crafted from heavy-duty and shatterproof acrylic for durability in diverse weather conditions
  • Makes for a perfect gift for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts

Best Bird Seed For Cardinals And Blue Jays FAQs

Are there any special feeders or feed options specifically designed for cardinals and blue jays?

Yes, there are feeders and feed options specifically designed for cardinals and blue jays. These birds have unique feeding habits and preferences, and catering to their needs can attract them to your yard or garden. For example, cardinals prefer platform feeders with a large surface area that allows them to perch comfortably and access their food easily. They also prefer feeders that are positioned off the ground and in a quiet, secluded area. Blue jays, on the other hand, prefer hanging feeders with large perches that can accommodate their size and weight. They also enjoy a variety of foods, including peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. Overall, investing in a feeder that is specifically designed for cardinals or blue jays can help you attract these beautiful birds to your outdoor space and provide them with the food they need to thrive.

Can I mix different types of bird seed to attract cardinals and blue jays?

Yes, it is fine to mix different types of bird seed in order to attract cardinals and blue jays. Both of these bird species are known to enjoy a variety of seeds, including sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and peanuts. By mixing different types of bird seed, you can create a diverse and appealing feeding station that will attract a wide range of bird species to your yard.

When selecting bird seed for cardinals and blue jays, it is important to choose high-quality seed that is fresh and free from mold and other contaminants. Look for seed blends that are specifically designed to attract these bird species, or create your own mix using high-quality seeds that are known to be favorites of cardinals and blue jays.

Overall, mixing different types of bird seed is a great way to create a diverse and attractive feeding station for a wide range of bird species, including cardinals and blue jays. With a little bit of experimentation and some careful selection of high-quality seed, you can create a backyard oasis that will be a joy to watch and enjoy.

How can I prevent squirrels and other animals from eating the bird seed intended for cardinals and blue jays?

Squirrels and other animals can be a nuisance when it comes to bird feeders, as they tend to eat the seeds intended for cardinals and blue jays. However, there are several ways to prevent these animals from accessing the bird seed. One option is to use a squirrel-proof bird feeder. These feeders are designed to keep squirrels and other animals out, while allowing birds to access the seed. Another option is to use a bird feeder that is specifically designed for cardinals and blue jays. These feeders often have a larger perch or feeding port, which makes it more difficult for smaller animals to access the seed. Additionally, you can try placing your bird feeder on a pole or hanging it from a tree branch that is difficult for squirrels to reach. Lastly, you can try feeding your birds safflower seeds, which many squirrels and other animals do not like. With these tips, you can enjoy watching cardinals and blue jays at your feeder, without worrying about other animals stealing their food.

How often should I refill my bird feeder with seed for cardinals and blue jays?

The frequency of refilling your bird feeder with seed for cardinals and blue jays can depend on various factors such as the size of the feeder, the number of birds visiting, and the climate in your area. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to refill the bird feeder every two to three days to ensure that the birds have access to fresh and clean seed. If you notice that the feeder is empty before the two-day mark, you can consider filling it more frequently. It is also crucial to clean the feeder regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to the birds. By keeping the bird feeder clean and well-stocked, you can attract cardinals and blue jays to your yard and provide them with a reliable source of food.

What type of bird seed is best for attracting cardinals and blue jays?

When it comes to attracting cardinals and blue jays, the type of bird seed you use can make a big difference. Both of these birds are known to prefer certain types of seeds over others. For cardinals, the best option is typically black oil sunflower seeds. These seeds are high in oil and fat, which makes them a great source of energy for birds during the colder months. Additionally, cardinals tend to prefer larger seeds, so sunflower seeds are a great option for them. Blue jays, on the other hand, enjoy a variety of seeds, including sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. They also tend to enjoy larger seeds, so consider using a seed blend that includes larger seeds like sunflower seeds and nuts. Overall, when selecting bird seed for cardinals and blue jays, it's important to choose a high-quality blend that includes a variety of seeds to meet their dietary needs.

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