Hummingbirds make up the largest family of non-singing birds in the world and, in relation to their size, they are the most intelligent. More than four hundred kinds are identified. The largest number and variety are in Central and South America, Cuba and Mexico. The United States has nineteen varieties - seven on the West Coast, one in the eastern half and the rest along the Gulf of Mexico.
Only one kind lives east of the Mississippi River, and great numbers of them are seen throughout summer months. It is known as the ruby-throated and is well named because of the male’s brilliantly colored throat, contrasting with the white and metallic green of its other feathers.
Actually the ruby-throated is one of the smallest birds in North America-less than four inches long. During the nesting season, the male becomes very bold. He is a real threat with his sharp beak and ability to swiftly dash around a larger bird and give it some sharp jabs. One was seen scaring away an eagle that came close to its nest.
One of its favorite nectars is from the cardinal flower. These and other tubular, brightly colored flowers in home gardens attract them. The tiny bird darts from plant to plant, finding insects as well as feeding on the sweet nectar of the flowers, using its long, slender bill.
“Hummers” make their homes only in the Western Hemisphere of the world. A few spend summer months in Canada and, on occasions, as far north as Alaska. Most of these migrate south in the fall, where flower blossoms are fresh and sweet during winter months. Some migrate across the five hundred-mile Gulf of Mexico without stopping. This is truly amazing when you stop to think of the great amount of nectar and insects they normally eat each day just to stay alive. But the Creator has provided them with an amazing way of building up extra body weight before the migration, and they draw on this reserve while crossing the water. Others migrate over land, usually stopping for rests along the way to replenish their bodies with fresh food.
These lovely birds are wonderful examples of the Creator’s delight when, on the fifth day of His creation, He placed the first hummingbirds in the world. Ever since, He has had them in His care.
The opening Bible verse tells us that we should all recognize that God is the One who has done this. Do not be deceived by those who will not believe that God is our Creator. Another Bible verse warns us of this: “Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods” (Deuteronomy 11:1616Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; (Deuteronomy 11:16)).
(to be continued)
ML-07/31/2005