I finally cleaned and filled the hummingbird feeder outside my window. I have regular little visitors who fly in for a quick sip before zooming away again. And, every time I see these tiny marvels I am reminded of mothers everywhere.
Here’s why:
- Have you ever noticed how perfectly still a hummingbird’s body appears to be and yet their wings “disappear” because of their constant and rapid movement? When hovering, a hummingbird’s wings flap between 720-5400 times a minute and they expel so much energy just trying to stay in the air.
Moms are the same way; running here and there accomplishing so much in a day. And, even when moms’ bodies are still, their minds are going a hundred miles an hour while they think about carpool logistics, birthday parties, meal planning …
- Hummingbirds have been known to attack much larger birds like hawks and crows.
Likewise, threaten a mama’s family and size doesn’t matter. We will take you on!
- Hummingbirds have incredible hearing. And, kids will tell you that their moms seem to have super-human hearing because they hear every snotty comment a child utters under their breath.
- Hummingbirds have fantastic memories. They remember every plant in the area that offers nectar and how long it takes to draw that nectar out. Moms also have good memories (we have to!).
- Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly up, down, sideways or even backwards. Think about moms. We are pulled in so many directions. It seems our kids always want attention at the same time, plus we can cook dinner, discipline and help with homework simultaneously!
- Hummingbirds can fly 18-20 hours nonstop when migrating. Moms too, are the equivalence of the energizer bunny. We somehow manage to care for sick kids all night and still function the next day.
- Female hummingbirds make soft, inviting nests out of moss and leaves held together with spider silk. Moms too can make any house a home. Even in less than perfect environments, the love of a mom makes any place seem cozy.
- The hummingbird heart is the largest of all the animals (relatively). Its heart makes up 2.5% of its body weight. Need I even talk about a mother’s heart? Is there anything bigger?
- And, my favorite hummingbird similarity of all: A hummingbird can consume 14 times its weight in sugar water a day! Bring on the chocolate!
