A magical creature, the hummingbird never ceases to awe us with its iridescent beauty and aerial antics. It is as if they are a fusion of bird, insect, and fairy, with needle-like beaks, brilliant colored gorgets, and wings that so fast that they are merely a blur to our human eyes. Their charm is ethereal as they flit about the garden, spellbinding us as they fly sideways, upside down, backward and then suspend in mid-air before darting off in a flash of color.

There are seventeen species of hummingbirds, but they are found only in the western hemisphere. The tiny, mystical birds are the subject of much Native American mythology, even inspiring shamans and dancers to don their feathers for ceremonies and rituals. In the high Andes of South America, the hummingbird symbolizes resurrection since it seems lifeless during the cold nights, but comes back to life with the warmth of the sun. According to Mexican folklore, the hummingbird is believed to bring love and romance.

In animal totem tradition, the hummingbird stands for many things. It teaches us to laugh, revel in creation, and to appreciate the magic of life and the truth in beauty. Hummingbird consciousness awakens us to sensuous delights. We see beauty everywhere and our senses are aroused by nature's aromas from flowers to fine mist.

In Animal Speak, Ted Andrews says that hummingbirds can teach us the healing power of flower essences, inspiring us to protect the environment and preserve old traditions. He notes that, "the twittering, vibrating sounds of the hummingbirds bring us an internal massage that restores health and balance."

Encourage hummingbirds to visit you by planting flowers that are accommodating to them such as, Fuchsia, Honeysuckle, Beebalm, Bottlebrush and many more. Or put out a hummingbird feeder and fill it with sugar water, but please, no red dye.

Hummingbirds bring grace and elegance into our gardens (and lives). As we stare, mesmerized by these dazzling creatures, there is no other way than to be in the beauty of the moment.

For more information visit Hummingbirdworld.com