3 Best Platform Feeders for Cardinals That Will Attract Your Favorite Birds
If you’re looking to attract cardinals with a platform feeder, selecting one that’s sturdy, spacious, and weather-resistant makes all the difference. Think big enough—at least 10 inches long and 7 wide—to host multiple birds comfortably, and crafted from durable materials like treated wood or coated metal to withstand the elements. Placed high and shaded, these feeders invite your favorite songbirds while keeping seed fresh and accessible. Intrigued? Let’s explore the top options that combine function and durability.
STARSWR Bird Feeder for Outside (Wooden)
- 🐦BIRD FEEDER WOODEN:Attract a variety of wild birds like finches, cardinals, and chickadees to your backyard with this bird feeder.
- 🐦EASY TO CLEAN:- Enjoy easy cleaning and maintenance with a sturdy hemp rope for hanging.ensuring its durability and stability
- 🐦DIMENSION:- This hanging bird feeder dimension of 10.5" (L) x 7.5" (W) x 7.5" (H) and features a sloping roof and platform, See Wild Birds Up...
If you want a simple and reliable platform feeder, the STARSWR Bird Feeder for Outside (Wooden) is a great choice. It has a natural wood look that fits nicely in any garden. The feeder is 10.5 inches long, 7.5 inches wide, and 7.5 inches high. This gives birds plenty of space to perch and eat comfortably.
The sloped roof helps keep rain, snow, and sunlight off the food. This makes sure the feed stays dry and fresh. The open design makes it easy to clean, and a hemp rope makes hanging it simple. Because of its large open surface, many birds—like cardinals, finches, and chickadees—can visit at once. This turns your yard into a lively spot for watching wild birds.
Best For: people who like to watch different kinds of wild birds and want a strong, attractive feeder for outside.
Pros:
- Looks natural and fits well in gardens
- Big enough for many birds to feed at the same time
- Designed to stay outside with a weatherproof roof and easy cleaning
Cons:
- Some users say the hanging rope needs extra support to last longer
- If not cleaned or sealed, mold might grow
- It costs more than cheaper plastic or simple feeders, so some might look for less expensive options
Hanging Bird Feeder, Metal Mesh Hanging Bird Feeder Tray
- The optimal size (7.2 x 7.2 x 1.2") is precisely proportioned - neither too small nor excessively large, ensuring an appropriate quantity of food....
- Fine mesh feeding tray - Fine mesh holes to fit for more kinds of peanuts/seeds or mix seeds. Easier REFILL and no more waste. Maintain air...
- Adjustable chain size - The total height of the platform bird feeder is 16.5 inch with adjustable chain. Wildly in various sizes of space/trees.
The Metal Mesh Hanging Bird Feeder Tray is a great pick for anyone who loves watching birds. It is small and easy to use. The tray is 7.2 inches wide, which helps keep the food fresh and clean. Birds can see the food easily, and the fine mesh makes refilling quick and simple. It works well with many different seeds, nuts, and mixes. The tray is made from sturdy metal that won’t rust. It is coated so it can stay outside in rain or snow. The chain that hangs it is adjustable, so you can set it to the perfect height. Whether you hang it on a tree or porch, it stays steady and secure. This feeder is weather-proof and built to last. It’s a practical choice for anyone who wants a simple and durable bird feeder.
Best for: Bird lovers and garden lovers who want an easy-to-clean feeder that attracts all kinds of birds.
Pros:
- Made from tough, rust-proof metal lasts long outside
- Fine mesh helps keep seeds fresh and reduces waste
- Adjustable chain lets you set the right height
Cons:
- Small size (7.2 inches) means less food at once
- Mesh can get dirty, so it needs cleaning now and then
- You might need to change the chain length often for the best hanging height
iBorn Metal Bird Feeders for Outdoors (6 Port, Brushed Copper)
- 【Hold More, Refill Just Once a Week】Designed for convenience, this large bird feeder holds up to 2.2lbs of mix seed, hold more will reduce the...
- 【2.2lbs Large Capacity-Attracting More Birds Coming】Compare those mini sized birdfeeders, iBorn large 2.2lb capacity ensures a constant food...
- 【Built to Last – Premium Materials for Year-Round Use】Whole feeder using in Solid Material Construction,to Extended Lifespan: 1.Reinforced PC...
The iBorn Metal Bird Feeder for Outdoors is a great choice for bird lovers. It has six large ports to hold seeds. This makes it easy to feed many birds at once. The brushed copper finish makes the feeder strong and weatherproof. It can hold up to 2.2 pounds of seed. This means you don’t need to refill it often. It is especially good for attracting cardinals and social songbirds.
The ports are made to control how seeds flow, so there is less waste and mess. The big, 18cm roof helps keep rain and snow off the seeds. The feeder is made from durable metal that birds can’t chew through. It also has quick-clean features that make it easy to wash and keep clean. You can hang it outside all year long and enjoy watching the birds visit.
This feeder is perfect for people who love watching birds. It needs little maintenance and can handle all weather types. Just hang it up, fill it with seeds, and wait for the birds to come. You will see lots of different birds visit your yard.
Pros:
- Holds 2.2 pounds of seed, so you don’t need to refill often.
- Made from strong, weatherproof, chew-proof metal.
- Easy to refill with one hand and quick to clean.
Cons:
- The holes for seeds might not work with all seed types.
- It is more expensive than simple feeders because of better materials.
- Its size and weight may be tricky to hang in small spaces.
This bird feeder is a reliable and attractive way to enjoy many birds. Its large capacity and durable materials make it a good choice for year-round use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Platform Feeders for Cardinals
When choosing a platform feeder for your cardinals, you want to think about the size and space—will it comfortably hold multiple birds without overcrowding? Material durability and weather resistance are vital too, especially if you want your feeder to withstand rain, snow, or even the occasional squirrel acrobat. Finally, consider how easy it is to clean and whether squirrel deterrents are built in, because nobody wants uninvited guests taking over the buffet!
Size and Space
Ever wonder what size platform feeder is best for cardinals? A good size is at least 10 inches long and 7 inches wide. This gives the birds plenty of space to eat comfortably. When the surface is wide and open, several cardinals can come to feed at the same time. This helps reduce fighting and lets the birds hang out in groups because they are social animals. Having enough space also helps keep the area clean. Less food gets wasted or spoiled.
But, keep in mind, a big feeder needs to stay stable. It shouldn’t be too heavy or hard to hang. During busy times when many birds are looking for food, a larger platform becomes more helpful. It makes the feeding easier and happier for the cardinals. The right size helps the birds feel comfortable and keeps them coming back for more of your seeds.
Material Durability
Choosing the right material for your platform feeder is important. You want it to last. It should handle rain, snow, and sunshine without breaking or looking bad. Materials like treated wood, waterproof plastics, or coated metals work well. High-quality woods like cedar resist rot and mold. Applying a protective coat helps them last longer. Metal feeders with powder coatings or enamel are strong. They don’t chip, rust, or corrode easily. These are good for outdoor use all year.
Untreated wood and uncoated plastics are cheaper but don’t last as long. They can rot or break sooner. You may need to replace these feeders more often. Also, think about pests like squirrels or insects. They can cause more damage. Using tough, weatherproof materials saves you money and time. It keeps your bird feeder looking good longer. Plus, it encourages birds like cardinals to visit more often.
Weather Resistance
To keep your platform feeder working well outside, it needs to stand up to the weather. Using strong materials like treated wood, metal, or composite helps it resist rain, mold, and rust. Features like sloped roofs and drainage holes help water run away and keep the seeds dry, even when it rains hard. A protective coat, such as sealant or powder coating, adds extra protection against harsh weather. Strong hardware and solid joints help the feeder stay together during wind and storms. It is also good to clean and reseal the feeder often. These small steps help your feeder last longer and stay inviting for bright cardinals season after season.
Ease of Cleaning
When choosing a platform feeder for sparking cardinals, think about how easy it is to clean. A messy feeder can scare away your birds. Look for feeders with smooth surfaces like untreated wood or coated metal. These are easy to wipe off or rinse with water. Features like removable trays or hinged parts make it simple to get to hidden spots. This helps you remove seeds, bird droppings, and debris easily. Try to pick a feeder with few corners and tight spaces. These are less likely to collect mold, mold spots, or spores. Cleaning regularly with mild soap and water keeps the feeder safe and healthy for your birds. Avoid using harsh chemicals. A clean feeder makes sure your cardinals stay healthy and want to keep visiting.
Squirrel Deterrents
Squirrels can cause problems at bird feeders. They are smart and fast. They can eat all the bird food and scare away the birds. To stop squirrels, you can use special feeders. Look for feeders with barriers like baffles. These are shields above or below the feeder that stop squirrels from climbing. Metal surfaces can be slippery, so squirrels can’t grip well. You can also use cages with small openings to keep squirrels out. Place your feeder on a tall pole with a squirrel baffle or hang it high up. Some feeders have motion sensors or weight triggers. These sensors make a sound or move when squirrels try to enter. Another good trick is to put feeders far from trees or buildings. Squirrels use these places to jump onto feeders. Using these methods can help keep squirrels away so the birds can enjoy the food.
Bird Attraction Features
Want to get more cardinals to visit your yard? The secret is in the bird attraction features of your feeder. Cardinals like big, flat platforms with enough space to land and eat. Pick a feeder that isn’t too small, so they don’t feel crowded. Bright colors or natural wood can help catch their eye, making the feeder look interesting. Offer a variety of food, like sunflower seeds and mealworms, to attract these colorful birds. Make sure your feeder is weather-proof, with a sloped roof or cover so the food stays dry in rain or snow. An open design where birds can fly through makes them feel safe while they eat. These simple features can turn your feeder into a magnet for cardinals.
FAQs
How Often Should I Clean My Platform Feeder to Prevent Disease?
Cleaning your platform feeder regularly helps prevent disease and keeps birds healthy. You should clean it at least once every two weeks, more often if it gets dirty or wet, to make certain your feathered friends stay safe.
Can Platform Feeders Accommodate Multiple Bird Species Simultaneously?
You’ll find that platform feeders can comfortably host multiple bird species at once, especially if you provide varied seeds and perches. This encourages diverse visits, supports healthy bird interactions, and enhances your backyard’s birdwatching experience without overwhelming the feeder space.
What Is the Best Placement Height for Attracting Cardinals?
You should place your feeder at about 3 to 10 feet off the ground to attract cardinals. This height offers safety from predators, easy viewing, and access, making your yard more inviting to these beautiful birds.
How Do I Prevent Squirrels From Accessing My Platform Feeder?
You can prevent squirrels from accessing your platform feeder by placing it on a pole with squirrel baffles, ensuring it’s not near branches they can jump from, and using squirrel-proof feeders or coatings to deter them effectively.
Are There Specific Seed Mixes That Attract Cardinals More Effectively?
You can attract cardinals by using seed mixes with sunflower seeds, safflower, and millet, which they love. Incorporate these into your feeder to draw their attention, ensuring they keep coming back for more.
Ava is a bird enthusiast and nature lover who has spent countless hours observing and learning about the fascinating world of birds. With a passion for sharing her knowledge and inspiring others to appreciate the beauty of birds, Ava writes about her experiences and insights on avianadmirer.com.