I keep hummingbird feeders filled and fresh all year. I have Anna's all year
too. Last year we banded seven during the winter months--some have been
captured two years in a row, so we know they are residents. Right now I am
going through two 8oz feeders every week--I think some of the locals that go to
other yards during the summer (while the Rufus are here being bossy) have come back.
When it gets freezing, I put up a trouble light near the feeders--it keeps the nectar from freezing, and offers a place to warm up while eating. The other thing that really helps is most of the plants that I have planted for hummers bloom a good part of the year--right now my hardy fushias are all blooming, and so is one of my pentstemens (sp?). I also planted a cherry tree that usually blooms in Dec/Jan (this year it is blooming now)and brings in bugs that the hummers like when there is little else.

Chris Southwick
N Seattle/ Shoreline/ WA