Magnificent Birds – Large and Small

Did you know that there are more than 9,000 species of birds in the world? One of the largest species is the Andean Condor. These massive black and white birds live in South America and can weigh up to 33 pounds. Due to their weight, they have a hard time flying, so they prefer to glide on the wind. When they’re hungry, they soar along the coast, looking for dead fish or whales to eat.

Unlike the huge Andean Condor, the Costas Hummingbird is a tiny creature, weighing only .11 ounces. They have a gray body with a beautiful purple head and a long beak for getting nectar from flowers. Unlike Andean Condors, who have difficulty flying, Costa Hummingbirds are experts. They flap their wings 4000 times per minute so they can stay up in the air while eating.

Although the Andean Condor and the Costas Hummingbird are as different as night and day, God made both creatures, and they are both beautiful in His sight. Just like there are many different types of birds, there are many types of people. God made us in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some of us have lighter skin while others have darker skin, but He loves all of us just the same. The next time you’re at the mall, see how many different types of people you can notice, then thank God for all of them!

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Katie Suarez is a writer from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She has written for Our Sunday Visitor, Living Faith Kids, and James Dobson’s Thriving Family. Katie enjoys playing basketball with her son, reading, and going on walks with her husband.