What kind of environment do cardinals prefer to hang out in?

Question

What kind of trees or shrubs best attract cardinals. Is there a particular arrangement or layout that they prefer?

LOL or in the minds of mathematicians :)

I would rather not put out seed because I worry about making them dependent. Perhaps natural vegetation that provides natural food, protection, and nesting would be nice.

Answer 1

Here you go:

http://www.msu.edu/~gosseli6/cardinal.htm

In addition to the above site, a Yahoo search for "cardinal habitat" (include the quotation marks) will turn up many sites worth exploring.

Good luck with your search.

Answer 2

i have TONS of cardinals in my yard...well actually 3 paired "couples"....i have oak trees, but they nest somewhere else,the main attraction is seed....small black sunflower to be exact...and i have 2 birdbaths......i have the feeders and baths close or under my oaks....close to the house,they like to be able to "get away" quickly if needed....if the bath and feeders are in an open area they will use them less.....put the feed out,it may take awhile but they'll find it....blue jays are also good 'cause they alarm other birds of danger, you'll get more different types of birds if you have blue jays around...they'll eat the same seed but i notice they like the mixed variety better.....happy bird watching

Answer 3

I have heard they actually like to hang out in churches, and most likely the Vatican City.
If they are living in trees, and shrubs, you should shoo them away, and be a little concerned for your safety.

Answer 4

We have been so much brainwashed, that we know more of the Cardinals (manager in religion) than cardinal (birds)!

Answer 5

Anywhere near a birdfeeder with plenty of sunflower seed. I have plenty of them around here.

Answer 6

Cardinals are small woodland birds.