"For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible.... All things were created by Him, and for Him" (Col. 1:16).
In the forests of Central and South America, from Mexico to Brazil and on nearby islands, there are over 50 species of the interesting manakin, a bird not much larger than a swallow, but much more active. They are provided by the Creator with small but strong beaks, slightly hooked on the end, with which they pluck fruit from trees, as well as insects from the air, while flying. These items form their principal food supply.
The more common manakins include those called the long-tailed, swallow-tailed, white-bearded, golden-headed and the blue-backed. Their names describe each one's general appearance. They are also called jewel birds, perhaps because of the brilliant coloring of the males. The females, however, are mostly plain olive-green, this being a kind provision of their Creator, so that they blend in with their surroundings while sitting in their nests or taking care of their little ones.
Manakins have a most outstanding way of choosing mates. Not all follow the same pattern, but many-especially the white-bearded, golden-headed and blue-backed-put on a remarkable show. First of all, a group of handsome males selects an open area between trees, and one or more remove twigs, leaves, grass and pebbles, exposing the bare ground in a large circle.
With this area ready, female birds, drawn to the loud calls of the males, look on from nearby branches as the males get into action. The leading one first jumps high in the air, hovering there with fluttering wings in front of a female and perhaps flying back and forth near her before dropping back to the ground. Then, one by one, the others leap up and perform the same way while making a noise like a cat meowing.
In some of these groups each male will make 100 jumps or more, becoming faster and faster each time. Before long the females, in their excitement, hop up and down from perch to perch, and then with widespread wings each makes its way to the ground, selecting the male of its choice. Soon pairs fly off together to build a cup-shaped nest in a tree or bush, where two eggs are laid and incubated for about three weeks. After hatching, the little ones are cared for by the mother for another three or four weeks (her mate leaves it all up to her) until they are able to be on their own.
The Lord God found great pleasure in creating all living things, and we can be sure of His tender thoughts toward these lovely birds as He watches over them. His eyes are always on you, too, inviting you to admit your need of having your sins forgiven and to accept Him as your Savior. Have you done this?