Georgia Wildlife Resources Division
2070 U.S. Hwy. 278, SE, Social Circle, GA 30025
One of the simplest ways to keep hummingbird feeders from freezing in the winter is to place a clip-on shop light equipped with a 150-watt bulb close to the feeder. When there is a chance that the temperature will dip below freezing, turn the light on. The heat generated by the light bulb should keep the feeder from freezing.
It is always best to determine how close you can place the bulb next to the feeder without melting plastic feeder parts. Mount the light at varying distances from your feeder and see what works best with your feeder. Use this method to test before leaving the light on for extended periods of time.
For more information, contact the Nongame Wildlife and Natural Heritage Program at (478) 994-1438 or write to: Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division, Nongame Wildlife and Natural Heritage Program, 116 Rum Creek Drive, Forsyth, Georgia 31029.