Interesting Facts About Cardinals

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Cardinals are one of the most popular and recognized birds across the United States. These red birds with the brilliant red plumage can be seen from Maine to Texas and even parts of Mexico. The colorful bird are the males and use their striking color to attract females who are more muted but still a handsome bird. Many of us enjoy seeing the bird come into our yards and here are some ideas to keep them returning: * Layered shrubs - trees and shrubs that vary in height is a good way to attract cardinals to your yard. They like to nest in dense shrubs and to perch high on a branch to sing from. * Add plants that host caterpillars such as spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and wild grape (Vitis labrusca). They can use the bark to build their nests and feed the caterpillars to their young. * It is recommended that you choose a platform or non-hanging feeder so the bird can rest while it feeds. They are ground feeders, and their cone-shaped beaks allow them to enjoy sunflower and safflower seeds, both of which have hard shells. Try to mix the seeds to see which the cardinals that frequent your yard will enjoy most. * Having more than one fountain in your yard will attract cardinals. They enjoy drinking and bathing as well splashing around in it. Having these close will make them more apt to stay close to water when searching for a nesting place. We don't have cardinals in Idaho but I still enjoy them depicted in art. Do you see them where you live? Picture is from alphacoders.com