Throughout the summer range of the ruby-throated hummingbird, these tiny birds are currently preparing for their long journey to their winter home in southern Mexico and Central America.  The fuel that will power this trip is stored at fat.  Those hummers that fly across the Gulf of Mexico to reach their winter headquarters can use all of its fat reserves during their 20-hour flight over water!

       As amazing as this sounds, consider the fact that while the birds are winging their way over water, their oxygen consumption per gram of fat muscle is approximately 10 times higher than an that of top Olympic athletes.

       I find it fascinating that the more we learn about hummingbirds, the more it becomes obvious that they are truly amazing creatures.