Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Hummingbirds and their Symbolism and Fun Facts

I love these little energetic birds.   Tiny and cute, I relate to them, as they are hyperactive like me.   I often wondered if there is any special symbolism to them.   I now know why so many of us are naturally drawn to them. 


Tiny Dancer before I kaleidoscoped it.


The overall symbolism of the hummingbird is joy.  
Tiny Dancer


In animal totems the hummingbird is a powerful symbol of life and joy,   

 
Hyper Hummer Before I kaleidoscoped it.



Because of their ability to hover  hummers are often thought to be reminders that life is meant to be savored, their tireless activity symbolizes perseverance.

Hyper Hummer



Because hummingbirds do not simply flap their wings up and down, but instead move them in the pattern of the infinity symbol, or a figure eight, they are often thought to symbolize eternity and everlasting life.

Miniature Marvel before I kaleidoscoped it

If you are still not enamored with this little bird here are a few fun facts to convince you how incredible they really are!


Miniature Marvel

  • Hummingbirds are the tiniest birds in the world.
  • The bright radiant color on hummingbirds comes from iridescent coloring like on a soap bubble or prism.
  • A hummingbird's brain is 4.2% of its body weight, the largest proportion in the bird kingdom.

Hummer Heaven

  • Hummingbirds are very smart and they can remember every flower they have been to, and how long it will take a flower to refill. They will remember your feeder and how  often you fill it!
Hummer Heaven before I kaleidoscoped it.
  • A hummingbird can dive up to 60 miles per hour
  • Hummingbirds can also hover in mid-air, fly sideways and even upside-down.
  • They are FEARLESS!  When a predator, such as a hawk, is in a hummingbird's territory, it will sound a high-pitched warning call, then the tiny bird will start attacking the unwanted predator by dive-bombing it.
Summer Hummer before I kaleidoscoped it

Summer Hummer
 
Bring joy and perseverance to your life and put out a hummingbird feeder and a few flower pots out this spring!  Get a comfortable lawn chair, a glass of lemonade and enjoy the show these tiny little creations will put on for you!  You are sure to be entertained!

Take care,
Mel

Interested in the kaleidoscope photos of the hummingbirds?  Please visit my shops below.  You can get these in pendants, coasters, trivets, ceramic tiles, keepsake boxes, compacts, paperweights, note cards, matted and framed prints,  magnets and  ornaments!


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