Genny rescues a baby hummingbird from a puddle during rainy season in the tropics and discovered that big affirmations come in small packages.
As far back as I can remember hummingbirds have always held a special place in my heart. They beguile me when they zip from flower to flower, their slim beaks drawing nectar from each bloom. Emerald feathers glisten like petite jewels, capturing the prisms of sunlight.
No bigger than ripe purple plums, it would seem that with a single breath, they could be blown over. Yet (I have since learned), hummingbirds are strong enough to withstand most of what Mother Nature challenges them with. They are feisty creatures, ready to defend their territory, and occasionally they can even be called bullies.
When I lived in Canada, I planted gardens to encourage hummingbirds to grace my yard. In the summer, if even one showed up, I would have a grin plastered on my face for days, I was so happy for having had the encounter. Now I live on the Island of Roatan, Honduras where there are so many of them at the feeder each day I can’t keep count! Yup, I’m always grinning!
About a year ago during rainy season, I was out for a walk when I heard an unusual noise coming from a puddle of water. I found a hummingbird floundering in that puddle.
The poor thing had a crippled foot and had obviously had lost strength from trying to make it to shelter during the steady rain. I scooped the hummingbird up and cradled it in my palm.
My heart was pounding from the realization that I was actually touching one of these amazing birds, but also from the fear that it may not survive. Racing home I laid the little jewel on a towel and brought the feeder to it.
I guided its beak into the feeder. All the while stroking its tiny feathers, urging it to take a drink. At first lifeless, it suddenly opened its eyes and started gulping at the sugar water offered.
I gently set the precious puff-ball on my hand and gave it a stern talking to for scaring me like that. Returning it to the towel the hummingbird continued drinking from the feeder for another 20 minutes or so until it had regained enough strength.
The familiar sound of tiny wings beating so fast they were a blur began. I watched the hummingbird fly to a nearby tree, while resisting the urge to scoop it back into the safety of my palm.
Perching on a slim branch with only one good foot to hold on with, the feisty creature somehow managed. I was thrilled to see when it flew back a few minutes later to the feeder that I had re-hung on the porch.
I kept an eye on the little guy for the rest of the day, but the time came when it didn’t return anymore. I can only assume this perfect gem found its way home.
The recent posting by Gil Namur at Life as a Human of a Baby Hummingbird Rescued by Young Man inspired me to share this story. I’ve had a love affair with hummingbirds forever.
When I watched the video of the tiny creature being cared for by the young man, my “everything with the world is wonderful” emotion was activated just as it was with my own encounter!
Photo Credits
All photos © Genny Ross-Barons
What a wonderful and touching post! Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures to observe, and I envy you the opportunity to interact with one up close! Thank you so much for sharing this with us Genny!