Cardinals and blue jays brighten any backyard with their vibrant colors and lively presence. Feeding them the right bird seed helps attract these beautiful birds and keeps them healthy.
Choosing the best bird seed for cardinals and blue jays means understanding their favorite foods. Cardinals love sunflower seeds, safflower, and peanuts, while blue jays enjoy corn, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Mixing these seeds creates a blend that appeals to both species.
Quality seed blends like Kaytee Nut & Fruit or Armstrong Royal Jubilee Jays provide essential nutrients. Offering fresh, clean seed in an outside feeder invites more birds to visit. Watching these colorful birds up close brings joy and supports local wildlife. This guide covers top bird seed options to attract and nourish cardinals and blue jays in your yard.
Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed

The Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed, 5 lb. is ideal for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a variety of wild birds to their backyard. Perfect for both beginners and experienced bird watchers, this seed blend suits anyone looking to provide a nutritious and appealing food source for local wildlife. If you have feeders or enjoy observing colorful and diverse bird species, this product is a great choice.
Pros:
- Contains a mix of nuts and fruits that attract a wide range of wild birds
- Provides essential nutrients for healthy bird diets
- Large 5 lb. size offers long-lasting supply
- Produced by trusted brand Kaytee under Central Garden & Pet
- Compact packaging with convenient dimensions for easy storage
Cons:
- May attract squirrels and other unwanted wildlife
- Some birds may prefer specialized seed blends over mixed options
- Weight of 5 pounds might be heavy for some users to carry
The Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed features a thoughtfully crafted blend that combines the natural appeal of nuts and fruits, making it highly attractive to many species of wild birds. This combination ensures birds receive a balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins, promoting their health and vitality. The seed’s quality is backed by the reputable Kaytee brand, known for producing reliable pet and wildlife products.
Measuring 13.25 inches in height, 10 inches in width, and 1.75 inches in length, the packaging is designed for easy handling and storage without occupying much space. Weighing 5 pounds, it provides an ample supply to keep your bird feeders stocked for an extended period, reducing the frequency of refills. Overall, this bird seed is an excellent option for anyone seeking to enhance their backyard birdwatching experience with a nutritious and appealing food source.
Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food

The Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food is ideal for bird enthusiasts who want to attract vibrant and lively cardinals to their outdoor feeders. Perfect for homeowners with bird feeders in their gardens or backyards, this bird seed blend is tailored specifically for cardinals, ensuring that these beautiful birds frequent your outdoor space more often. If you are looking to support local wildlife and enjoy birdwatching from the comfort of your home, this product is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Specifically formulated to attract cardinals and other wild birds.
- Comes in a convenient 4-pound bag that is easy to store and handle.
- Contains a blend of high-quality seeds that provide nutritious food for birds.
- Produced by trusted brands Audubon Park and Global Harvest Foods.
- Compact dimensions (11 x 6 x 4.5 inches) make it easy to fit in most storage spaces.
Cons:
- May attract unwanted pests if not stored properly.
- Limited to attracting primarily cardinals and similar bird species.
- Only available in a single 4-pound size, which may require frequent repurchasing for avid bird watchers.
The Audubon Park Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food is thoughtfully crafted to meet the dietary needs of cardinals, using a blend of seeds that appeal specifically to their taste preferences. This targeted formula helps ensure that your feeders attract these stunning birds, enriching your outdoor experience with vibrant colors and melodic bird songs. The nutritional quality of the seeds also supports the health and vitality of visiting birds throughout the seasons.
In addition to its specialized seed blend, the product’s packaging is designed for convenience and ease of use. The 4-pound bag size is ideal for home use, striking a balance between quantity and manageability. Whether you are a casual bird watcher or a dedicated enthusiast, this bird food makes feeding cardinals simple and effective, enhancing your connection with nature right in your backyard.
Wagner’s Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food

The Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food is perfect for bird enthusiasts and homeowners looking to attract a variety of wild birds to their backyard. Ideal for those who want to provide high-quality nutrition to birds such as cardinals, finches, and chickadees, this blend is designed to meet the dietary needs of many wild bird species while encouraging frequent visits to your feeder.
Pros:
- Contains a special blend formulated for cardinals and other wild birds
- Comes in a convenient 6-pound bag for extended use
- Supports bird health with nutritious seeds
- Easy to store and handle due to its compact dimensions (13.3 x 3.1 x 8.1 inches)
- Produced by the trusted brand Wagner’s, known for quality bird food
Cons:
- May attract unwanted animals if not stored properly
- Limited to wild birds that prefer seed blends, not suitable for nectar feeders
- Some users may find the bag size too large for occasional bird feeders
The Wagner’s 62032 Cardinal Blend Wild Bird Food features a thoughtfully crafted mix that caters specifically to the dietary preferences of cardinals and other common backyard birds. This blend includes a variety of nutritious seeds that provide essential energy and nutrients, helping birds maintain their health and vitality throughout the year. The 6-pound packaging offers a substantial amount of food, making it convenient for continuous feeding without frequent repurchasing. Its compact dimensions also ensure easy storage and handling.
Beyond its nutritional benefits, this blend encourages frequent bird visits, enhancing your outdoor experience with vibrant birdwatching opportunities. The product’s trusted brand reputation assures you of quality and consistency, ensuring that your feathered visitors receive a reliable food source. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or just starting to build a bird-friendly backyard, Wagner’s Cardinal Blend is a practical and effective choice.
Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend Food Seed

The Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend Food Seed is ideal for avid bird watchers and nature enthusiasts who want to attract a variety of wild birds such as Grosbeaks, Cardinals, Nuthatches, Woodpeckers, and many others to their backyard. If you are looking to create a vibrant, lively bird haven and enjoy the beauty of diverse bird species, this 10-pound seed mix is designed to meet your needs.
Pros:
- Contains a specially formulated blend that attracts multiple bird species
- Large 10-pound size provides long-lasting feeding supply
- Produced by trusted brand Kaytee and manufacturer Central Garden & Pet
- Compact dimensions (19.5″ x 11.0″ x 2.5″) make it easy to store
- High-quality seeds promote healthy bird feeding and visitation
Cons:
- May attract unwanted pests if not stored properly
- Bulk packaging might be heavy for some users to handle (10 pounds)
The Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend features a carefully curated selection of seeds that appeal to a wide range of wild birds. This versatility ensures that backyard bird feeders attract more species, enhancing the birdwatching experience. The balanced composition supports the nutritional needs of birds like Grosbeaks, Cardinals, Nuthatches, and Woodpeckers, encouraging them to visit frequently and stay healthy.
Beyond just attracting birds, this seed blend offers convenience and reliability. The 10-pound package size provides ample supply for extended feeding periods, reducing the frequency of refills. Additionally, the trusted Kaytee brand and Central Garden & Pet manufacturing guarantee quality and safety, giving bird lovers peace of mind as they nurture their feathered visitors.
Wagner’s 53002 Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food

The Wagner’s 53002 Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food with Cherry Flavor is perfect for bird enthusiasts and gardeners who want to attract a variety of wild birds to their outdoor spaces. Ideal for those seeking a high-quality, flavorful blend that supports local wildlife, this 10-pound bag is designed for homeowners, bird watchers, and nature lovers looking to enhance their backyard bird feeding experience.
Pros:
- Contains a delicious cherry flavor that entices a wide range of wild birds.
- Generous 10-pound bag size offers great value and lasts through multiple feeding sessions.
- Produced by trusted brand Wagner’s known for quality bird food products.
- Compact dimensions (4.5” H x 9” W x 16.25” L) make it easy to store.
- Supports the health and vitality of wild birds with a nutritious seed blend.
Cons:
- The bag may be heavier to carry at 10 pounds, which could be less convenient for some users.
- Specific cherry flavor might not appeal to all bird species equally.
- Requires proper storage to maintain freshness over time.
The Wagner’s 53002 Farmer’s Delight Wild Bird Food features a special cherry flavor that enhances the natural appeal of the seed mix, attracting a diverse population of wild birds to your yard. This blend is crafted to provide essential nutrients, ensuring birds receive a balanced diet while visiting your feeders. Its quality composition promotes bird health, encouraging frequent visits and a lively bird-watching environment.
Thanks to the thoughtfully sized 10-pound bag, this product offers both convenience and long-lasting use, ideal for regular feeders. The compact packaging dimensions make storage straightforward, preventing clutter and preserving the food’s freshness. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a beginner looking to support local wildlife, this bird food blend from Wagner’s combines taste and nutrition to create an inviting habitat for wild birds in your garden.
Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed

The Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed, 7 lb. is ideal for bird enthusiasts and homeowners who want to attract vibrant cardinals and other wild birds to their backyard. If you are someone who enjoys birdwatching or wants to support local wildlife with a reliable and nutritious food source, this product is a perfect choice. It is especially suitable for those looking for a high-quality seed blend that appeals to cardinals and a variety of other wild birds.
Pros:
- Contains a blend specifically formulated to attract cardinals and other wild birds.
- Comes in a convenient 7 lb. size that lasts for an extended feeding period.
- Produced by Kaytee, a trusted brand in bird care products.
- Easy to store with compact dimensions (Height: 18.0 inches, Width: 10.5 inches, Length: 2.75 inches).
- Supports local wildlife by providing a nutritious and appealing seed mix.
Cons:
- Some users may find the 7 lb. bag heavy to handle or store.
- May attract unwanted pests if not stored properly.
The Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed features a carefully selected seed blend that is highly attractive to cardinals, along with other common backyard birds such as finches and chickadees. This product’s composition ensures that birds receive a nutritious diet while providing bird watchers with the joy of observing a variety of species. The seed mix’s quality and design reflect Kaytee’s commitment to supporting avian health and enhancing outdoor birdfeeding experiences.
With its thoughtfully measured size and packaging, this 7 lb. bag is ideal for regular feeders who want to maintain a steady supply of food for their feathered visitors. Its compact dimensions make it easy to store, while the brand’s reputation ensures that users receive a reliable and consistent product. By choosing this wild bird seed, customers contribute to sustaining local bird populations and enjoy the natural beauty of their backyard wildlife year-round.
Wild Bird Seed For Outside Feeders By Freebird

The Wild Bird Seed for Outside Feeders by Freebird is ideal for bird enthusiasts and homeowners who want to attract a variety of colorful wild birds such as Cardinals and Finches to their gardens or backyards. This premium blend is perfect for those who value high-quality ingredients and want to provide a nutritious and appealing food source for local songbirds. Whether you are an experienced bird watcher or a beginner looking to enhance your outdoor space, this seed mix offers an excellent solution.
Pros:
- Contains a premium blend of Sunflower, Safflower, Peanut Pieces, Red Millet, and White Millet that attracts a wide variety of songbirds.
- Comes in a convenient 5lb bag suitable for multiple refills and long-lasting feeding.
- Supports local wildlife by providing a nutritious and energy-rich food source.
- Branded by FREEBIRD Wild Bird Seed and manufactured by Natural Prosperity LLC, ensuring quality and reliability.
- Dimensions make it easy to store and handle: Height: 13.78 inches, Width: 2.76 inches, Length: 11.81 inches.
Cons:
- May attract unwanted pests such as squirrels due to the peanut content.
- Some birds may prefer a seed mix without safflower if they dislike its taste.
- Relatively higher price compared to generic bird seed blends.
This Wild Bird Seed blend stands out due to its carefully selected ingredients designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of wild birds. The inclusion of sunflower and safflower seeds provides essential fats and proteins, which are vital for bird health, especially during colder months. The peanut pieces add an additional protein boost, encouraging more frequent visits by larger birds like cardinals. Meanwhile, the red and white millet cater to smaller birds such as finches, ensuring a diverse bird population can enjoy the feeder.
Beyond the nutritional benefits, this seed mix enhances the outdoor experience by attracting vibrant and melodious songbirds, turning any garden into a lively sanctuary. The premium quality and balanced composition help reduce seed waste, making it an efficient choice for bird lovers. Additionally, the 5lb packaging offers both convenience and value, allowing users to maintain a steady supply without frequent repurchasing. Overall, the Freebird premium songbird blend is a thoughtful investment for anyone looking to support local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature up close.
Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend

The Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend is perfect for avid bird watchers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to attract and feed blue jays in their backyard. Ideal for those with outside feeders, this blend caters specifically to the dietary preferences of blue jays, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their bird feeding experience with a high-quality, specialized bird food.
Pros:
- Contains a nutritious mix of whole corn, striped sunflower, black oil sunflower, and peanuts to attract blue jays.
- Comes in a convenient 4-pound package, ideal for regular use without frequent refills.
- Supports the natural feeding habits of blue jays, promoting healthy bird activity in your yard.
- Produced by Armstrong Bird Food, a trusted brand known for quality bird products.
Cons:
- Specifically formulated for blue jays, so it may not attract a wide variety of other bird species.
- Not suitable for indoor feeders or small bird feeders due to the size of ingredients like whole corn and peanuts.
The Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend features a thoughtfully selected mix of ingredients such as whole corn, striped sunflower, black oil sunflower seeds, and peanuts, which are highly favored by blue jays. This combination ensures that the birds receive a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients and energy to support their active lifestyle. The inclusion of these ingredients also helps maintain the birds’ natural feeding behavior, making your bird feeding efforts more successful and enjoyable.
Designed for use in outside feeders, this blend is packaged in a 4-pound bag that is easy to store and use. The size and composition of the food make it ideal for attracting blue jays while minimizing waste. Additionally, by choosing a product from Armstrong Bird Food, users benefit from the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency, ensuring that your feathered visitors get the best nutrition possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Bird Seeds Attract Cardinals Most Effectively?
Seeds like sunflower, safflower, and peanuts attract cardinals well. Brands like Kaytee Nut & Fruit and Wagner’s Cardinal Blend use these seeds. These blends provide essential nutrients and appeal to cardinals’ preferences, ensuring consistent visits to your feeder.
Which Seed Blends Are Best For Blue Jays?
Blue jays prefer whole corn, black oil sunflower, and peanuts. Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend contains these. It’s ideal for outside feeders, offering a mix that supports blue jays’ dietary needs and attracts them reliably.
Can A Single Bird Seed Mix Attract Both Cardinals And Blue Jays?
Yes, blends like Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend are designed for multiple species. They include sunflower, peanut pieces, and fruit, appealing to cardinals, blue jays, and other wild birds.
How Often Should I Refill My Bird Feeder With These Seeds?
Refill feeders when seed levels drop below half. This keeps seeds fresh and prevents spoilage. Regular refilling encourages consistent visits from cardinals and blue jays.
Are Flavored Bird Seeds Better For Attracting Cardinals?
Flavored seeds, like Wagner’s Cherry Flavor, can be appealing but are not necessary. Natural seed blends typically attract cardinals effectively while offering balanced nutrition.
What Feeder Types Work Best With These Cardinal And Blue Jay Seeds?
Platform and hopper feeders work well. They accommodate larger seeds like sunflower and peanuts. These feeder types allow cardinals and blue jays easy access to their preferred seeds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bird seed can attract beautiful cardinals and blue jays to your garden. Each seed blend offers unique benefits for these vibrant birds. Kaytee Nut & Fruit Wild Bird Seed provides a nutritious mix. Audubon Park Cardinal Blend is perfect for outside feeders.
Wagner’s Cardinal Blend offers a balanced diet for cardinals. Kaytee Wild Bird Ultimate Birder’s Blend attracts a variety of wild birds. Wagner’s Farmer’s Delight includes a cherry flavor. Kaytee Cardinal Wild Bird Seed delivers quality nutrition. Freebird’s Premium Songbird Blend is rich in sunflower and safflower seeds.
Armstrong Wild Bird Food Royal Jubilee Jays Blend is ideal for blue jays. Consider your local bird population and their preferences. This will help you choose the best seed. Enjoy watching these colorful birds visit your feeders. Their presence brings joy and beauty to any outdoor space.
Happy birdwatching!