During the cold winter months, hummingbirds still need a reliable food source to survive. While some hummingbirds migrate to warmer climates, others tough out the winter in cold environments. Providing nectar in a hummingbird feeder is crucial to help hummingbirds conserve energy and survive the winter.
But which hummingbird feeder is best for cold weather? The ideal winter hummingbird feeder should keep nectar from freezing while still being easy to clean and refill. Here we compare the features of different feeder types to determine the best options for cold climates.
Key Considerations for Cold Weather Hummingbird Feeders
Here are the main factors to evaluate when choosing a hummingbird feeder for winter use:
- Insulation – The feeder should have thick, insulated walls to prevent freezing.
- Leakproof – Feeders with tightly sealing ports prevent nectar leaks in freezing temperatures.
- Easy to clean – Look for a wide mouth design that allows easy cleaning.
- Antimoat – Feeding ports and perches with ant moat reservoirs prevent ants in warm weather.
- Durable – Cold resistant materials like thick plastic or glass last longer outdoors.
- Capacity – Larger capacity holds more nectar so refills are less frequent.
Keeping these features in mind, let’s compare some top-rated feeders for cold climates.
Plastic Feeders
Plastic is an affordable and durable material for hummingbird feeders. Look for thick, insulated plastic to prevent freezing. Here are some top plastic options:
Aspects Window Mount Hummingbird Feeder
- Double-wall plastic construction
- Leakproof spring-loaded seal
- Wide mouth for easy cleaning
- 8 oz capacity
- Can mount on windows
This is an insulated feeder perfect for mounting right on a window to watch birds up close. The sealed feeding ports prevent leaks.
First Nature 3055 Hummingbird Feeder
- Thick plastic walls
- 10 feeding ports with built-in ant moats
- 16 oz capacity
- Dishwasher safe
With a large capacity and easy to clean design, this feeder can serve multiple hummingbirds at once while resisting freezing.
Perky-Pet PP001B Antique Bottle Hummingbird Feeder
- Glass bottle construction
- Plastic wrap-around feeding ports
- 16 oz capacity
- Vintage decorative style
The classic bottle shape holds a large volume of nectar. Plastic feeding ports prevent leaks while adding protection from freezing.
Glass Feeders
Glass feeders are visually appealing but require some modifications for winter use. Here are some top options:
Grateful Gnome Glass Hummingbird Feeder
- Handblown glass construction
- Double sealed feeding ports
- 12 oz capacity
- Can add insulating neoprene sleeve
This beautifully crafted glass feeder has airtight feeding ports to lock in warmth. Add an insulating sleeve in cold months.
Coffee Sock Glass Bottle Feeder
- Repurposed glass juice bottle
- Coffee sock wrap provides insulation
- Holds 20+ oz capacity
- Low cost DIY option
For a budget-friendly solution, wrap a glass juice bottle in an insulating coffee sleeve. Cork or cover the opening and cut small slits for entry.
Saxon Glass Hummingbird Feeder
- Hand-blown dyed glass globe
- Plastic feeding ports with O-rings
- 20 oz capacity
- Can add extra insulation
With beautiful colored glass and leakproof feeding ports, this feeder makes a stunning statement. Protect it from freezing with extra insulation.
Heated Feeders
Heated feeders regulate temperature to prevent freezing. These require access to electrical outlets but provide the most reliable cold weather performance. Some top options include:
Farm Innovators Four Seasons Weather Resistant Heated Bird Bath and Outdoor Heated Feeding Station
- Thermostatically controlled heater (75 watt)
- 1.25 gallon capacity
- Plastic and aluminum metal construction
- Weather resistant
This heated bath and feeder is like an outdoor thermos, keeping nectar unfrozen down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Allied Precision Industries Heated Hummingbird Feeder
- Internal 15 watt heater with thermostat
- 32 oz plastic construction
- 5 feeding ports
- Ant moat
With a built-in adjustable thermostat, this feeder automatically maintains a constant 40-45 degree temperature.
Woodstream Wrap-A-Nectar Hummingbird Feeder Warmer
- 18 watt external heating wrap
- Adjustable thermostat 40-50 degrees F
- Weather resistant
- Fits all bottle style feeders
This affordable heating wrap fits around existing glass feeders to keep nectar from freezing.
Conclusion
The best hummingbird feeder for cold weather depends on your needs and budget. Plastic and glass feeders with thick walls provide good insulation if properly filled and cleaned. For the most reliable freezing protection, choose a heated feeder with a built-in adjustable thermostat.
No matter which feeder you select, maintaining and cleaning it regularly is key to providing hummingbirds with nutritious nectar throughout harsh winter months. With a quality cold-weather feeder, you can enjoy watching hummingbirds thrive even when temperatures drop.
