Location: Northern Virginia. I've kept my feeders up and noticed a significant decrease in activity over the last 2 weeks of September. I usually keep 4 feeders in my back yard. , During the hot months of July and August they are cleaned and refilled just about every other day to make sure the birds have fresh sugar water. As a result, I usually have a fair population of birds to enjoy, I also have 2 neighbors who maintain feeders so the birds have a good supply of food to pick from. However, the past 10 days or so I've noticed 1 bird, a female or perhaps young male, who is still a regular visitor to the feeder's. She (or he) has gotten comfortable with me close by, 8 to 10 feet, and even closer for my 2 Springer Spaniels, who sometime walk under the feeder. The feeder is located right above a spot on the deck where my female Springer enjoys laying down - she'll occasionally look up when she hears the wing beat, but beyond that has no interest. The bird may initially dart around the feeder, but soon settles down and ignores the dog. As a result I have been a able to use binoculars to watch the bird and note its markings. I am almost certain it is the same bird based on markings as well as the individual little characteristics displayed. He or she has also shown an interest in me, I'll stand still and after feeding it has at times hovered closer to me, seemingly curious. All in all I'd say the bird is quite comfortable with us, I always try to remain still in the same spot. I've read, although rare or unusual, sometimes a young bird will miss the signs to migrate and will remain in the area. I'm concerned the bird will remain for the winter and would like any advice to help my feathered friend make it until spring. I have already come up with a way to keep the feeders from freezing and I will keep 2 up throughout the winter. I wanted to ask the forum if there is any type of shelter I can make or buy to offer some protection from the elements. I can also provide a heated enclosure or house using LED's tapped into my deck lighting system. Any advice or comments would be greatly appreciated, this is the first time I've encountered this in 20 years of feeding them and would hate to have the bird suffer or have a difficult time finding food. I figure any edge I can provide is worth the try. I'm going to let my neighbors know and a the bird should have a good supply of food for the winter if it comes down it. Thank you in advance. Steve