Author Archives: Lee

Birds of the Bible – Under His Wing

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This week’s Birds of the Bible will divert from the introduction of a specific bird to a part of the bird. We had the privilege several weeks ago to visit a “rookery,” (a place where many birds have nests and raise their young. The Wood Storks had their wings spread out to keep the sun off of their young, which is a common behavior of birds. Birds also use their wings to protect them when danger is nearby and for warmth. It reminded me of the many Scripture references and songs about the protection or shadow of the wings.
Psalms 61:3-4 (KJV), says, “For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in thy tabernacle forever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah. “
Covert as defined by the Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)
–adjective
concealed; secret; disguised; covered; sheltered.

–noun
a covering;
cover; a shelter or hiding place; concealment or disguise
Also called tectrix one of the small feathers that cover the bases of the large feathers of the wings and tail.

Just a few of the Scriptures are:

Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings, From the wicked who oppress me, From my deadly enemies who surround me. (Psalms 17:8-9 NKJV)
How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. (Psalms 36:7 NKJV)
To the Chief Musician. Set to “Do Not Destroy.” a Michtam of David When He Fled from Saul into the Cave. Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, Until these calamities have passed by. (Psalms 57:1 NKJV)
Because You have been my help, Therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. (Psalms 63:7 NKJV)
He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.(Psalms 91:3 NKJV)

The wing has been mentioned in many hymns such as:
God Will Take Care of You – ( by Civilla D. Martin, 1869-1948 )
God Will Take Care of You

Be not dismayed whate’er betide,
God will take care of you;
Beneath His wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.

Refrain:
God will take care of you,
Thro’ ev’ry day, O’er all the way;
He will take care of you,
God will take care of you

Under His Wings (by William O. Cushing, 1823-1902)
Under His wings I am safely abiding;
Tho’ the night deepens and tempests are wild.
Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me;
He has redeemed me, and I am His child.

Refrain:
Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.

Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blest.

Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me;
Resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.

Two other hymns that mention the wings are:
Praise Ye the Lord!
Praise ye the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen How thy desires e’er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?
And,
God Be with You Till We Meet Again
God be with you till we meet again;
‘Neath His wings protecting hide you,
Daily manna still provide you;
God be with you till we we meet again.

Most information from The Cyber Hymnal

See ~ Wordless Birds

More ~ Birds in Hymns

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Birds of the Bible – Glede and Kite

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This week I am presenting two species, mainly because of the similarity between them. Again, these birds are from the lists of “unclean” birds. The Glede mentioned in Deut. 14:13 is interpreted as Glede, Red Kite, or Vulture, depending on which copy of the Bible you use. When “Googling”, most articles list the Glede as extinct or a Kite.

Red Kite

(KJV) And the glede, and the kite, and the vulture after his kind,
(NASB) and the red kite, the falcon, and the kite in their kinds,
(NKJV) the red kite, the falcon, and the kite after their kinds;

The Kite is also mentioned in:

Leviticus 11:14 KJV) And the vulture, and the kite after his kind;

That said, the Glede and Kite:

  • In the “Acciptiformes Order” which includes Hawks, Eagles, Falcons, Kites, etc.
  • Have large hooked bills
  • Very good eyesight used for finding prey while soaring
  • Are known to eat carrion

“The kite is a migratory bird that stays in Israel during the summer, especially in the mountains of southern Judea, in the trackless wasted west of the Dead Sea, and in the wilderness of Beersheba.
The red kite or glede is a medium-sized bird of prey. The edges of the upper part of the bill overlap with the lower one, forming sharp scissors. The tail is forked or cleft like that of a fish. Its loud cry often includes sharp whistling notes. Other Holy Land species include the black kite and the black-winged kite.” Tyndall Bible Dictionary

In Central Florida, we see the Swallow-tailed Kite.

See Birds of the Bible

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Birds of the Bible – Swan

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Swans are birds of the family Anatidae, which also includes geese and ducks. Swans usually mate for life. The number of eggs in each clutch ranges from three to eight.In North America we have at least four swans: Mute (60”), Trumpeter (60”), Tundra (52”), and Whooper (60”). There is also a Black Swan of Australia and a Black-necked Swan in South America. Swans are large, long-necked waterbirds that have a short duck-like bill and short legs. Many are seen on ponds, lakes, reservoirs and coastal bays. The Mute Swans are semi-domesticated. The Tundra Swan is sometime split into two species, Bewick’s and Whistling Swans.
The Swan is listed in Leviticus and Deuteronomy in the list of “unclean” birds.

And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier-eagle, (Leviticus 11:18 KJV)
The little owl, and the great owl, and the swan, (Deuteronomy 14:16 KJV)

Mute Swan pictures (click on for larger view) taken at Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales. They were irritated because the worker was mowing the grass beside the water and they kept following him back and forth. They had their wings arched back in frustration, but we thought they were beautiful like what I think “angel’s wings” might look like.

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Birds of the Bible – Cranes

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The 15 species of Cranes worldwide are: Black Crowned, Black-necked, Brolga, Demoiselle, Eurasian, Grey Crowned, Hooded, Red-Crowned, Sandhill, Sarus(tallest flying bird-6’ tall), Siberian, Wattled, White-naped, and the Whooping Crane(tallest N. American flying bird-5’ tall). A link to pictures and information about these cranes is at: International Crane Foundation

Cranes are tall birds from 3 to 6 feet tall, with wingspans over 6 feet. They fly with their neck straight out and their long legs trailing. They chatter and call when flying. We have plenty of Sandhill Cranes here in Central Florida walking around the neighborhoods. They seem pretty tame sometimes and will eat out of your hand. They have been bringing a small flock of Whooping Cranes to Florida every fall that follow an Ultra Light Aircraft from Wisconsin. We have a few non-migratory Whooping Cranes in the area that I have seen in a cow field off US 27.

Sandhill Cranes and Babies in our yard
Cranes migrate by following known paths taught them by their parents, or substitutes. Migrating birds know when and where to go and when to come. When God created them, He put that information in them. Plans are for a future blog about migration.

Like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter: I did mourn as a dove: mine eyes fail with looking upward: O LORD, I am oppressed; undertake for me. (Isaiah 38:14 KJV)

“So did I chatter – … The idea here is doubtless that of pain that was expressed in sounds resembling that made by birds – a broken, unmeaning unintelligible sighing; or quick breathing, and moaning. ” Barnes Commentary

Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD. (Jeremiah 8:7 KJV)

“The instinct of the migratory birds leads them with unfailing regularity to return every spring from their winter abodes in summer climes (Son_2:12); but God’s people will not return to Him even when the winter of His wrath is past, and He invites them back to the spring of His favor.”
Jameison, Faussett, and Brown Commentary

Sandhill Cranes(grey) at the Plate River and some Whooping Cranes(white)
See:
Birds of the Bible – Cranes II
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Bird School – Creation Moments

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Interesting Things from Smiley Central
Here’s a link to another Creation Moment’s daily article that just came today. This time it is about how birds learn their songs from their parents. Interesting! Listen to, or read it at:
Bird School
Along the side you will see a Creation Moments link for other articles.

Birds of the Bible – Dove and Turtle-Dove

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The Dove is probably recognized by most people, even though they may not know which specific kind they are viewing. White doves are released at weddings and other special occasions. The symbol for the dove is displayed many times. The coo of the mourning dove is heard and most recognize a Rock Pigeon (formerly a Rock Dove). We do not have Turtle-Doves here in America; they are in the Orient, Asia, Africa and Europe.
The dove family (Columbidae) ranges from about 6.5” to 12” and seem to be gentle. Doves tend to be monogamous and both male and female produce a “crop milk” to feed their young the first few days. Most birds regurgitate food for the young from the beginning. Doves do not make the most elabroate nests, often they are on the ground and flimsy. Many were domesticated and were used for sacrifices. They are considered “clean” birds in the Bible. There are at least twenty references to doves in the Word of God.

  • The first mention of the Dove is in Genesis 8:8-13 when Noah released her from the ark. She was released three times, but came back two times because she “found no rest for the sole of her foot.” They do not eat carrion as the raven does. Most are ground feeders and she had nowhere to feed that was dry. The second time she came back with an olive leaf, and then never returned the last time.
  • (Genesis 15:9, Leviticus 5:7 and 12:6-8, Luke 2:22-24) all refer the Dove and Turtle dove being used for sacrifices.
  • David was distressed and wrote “…Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. (Psalms 55:6 KJV)
  • Isaiah 38:14 says, “I did mourn as a dove…” We have a Mourning Dove.
    The Lord used the dove when he told His Apostles, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matt.10:16)
  • The dove became a symbol of The Holy Spirit at Jesus’ Baptism (Mat 3:16; Luk 3:22; John 1:32).

There is more to be said, but when you find the Dove in your Scripture reading, you will have a mental picture of them. The Hymn writers have used the dove in songs like:
Sunshine in My Soul – Eliza E. Hewitt, 1851-1920
There is springtime in my soul today,
For when the Lord is near,
The dove of peace sings in my heart,
The flow’rs of grace appear. Come, Holy Spirit, Heavenly Dove – Isaac Watts, 1674-1748
Come, Holy Spirit, heav’nly Dove,
With all Thy quick’ning pow’rs;
Kindle a flame of sacred love
In these cold hearts of ours.

Pictures are (In Order-Mourning, Eurasian Collared, Ground, and White-winged Doves) Reinier Munguia at Wildstock Photography)

See our Doves and Pigeon page

Birdwatching Trip – Circle B Bar Ranch Reserve

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Eastern Meadowlark

Last Saturday, they opened Circle B Bar Ranch Reserve here in Polk County up for a 1/2 day for birders, etc. to visit. The reserve has been closed for most of the winter for renovations and won’t officially open back up until November this year. So it was a delight to get to visit the wetlands part of it. They have over 1,200 acres and is a tremendous place to bird.
We arrived at 7:30 am on a clear, calm, 75 degree morning. First thing I heard and then saw were Eastern Meadowlarks. Then the normal Redwing Blackbirds, Boat-tailed Grackles, Common Moorhens, and Cattle Egret made theirselves known. When a few Glossy Ibises flew over, I stopped to watch. Don’t see them too often. Anhingas were all around with their wings streached out or diving for food. Lots of cries were heard from upset Black-neck Stilt parents when the visitors were getting too close to their eggs (which were right along the pathway).
As I continued walking along the path by the water, I saw Great Egrets, Little Blue Herons, Double-crested Cormorants, Tricolored Herons, Great Blue Herons, White Ibises, Coots, Opreys, Sandhill Cranes, and heard a Bob White. Then off in a distance with a group of Great Egrets and Snowy Egrets were several Rosetta Spoonbills (a favorite of mine).
Down another path, a man had set up a scope that was aimed at a tree. Looking through it, I saw baby Great Blue Herons and other babies unknown to me. That was the highlight of the trip for me. Retracing my steps making about a 1 1/2 mile trip altogether, I spotted Wood Ducks, a Bald Eagle, Cardinal and some Mourniing Doves.
Before going, I had asked the Lord to help me see lots of his critters and I sure wasn’t disappointed. He helped me spot the 26 different birds in about a two hour span. Watching their behavior, I now have some more articles running around in my brain for some more “Eye of the Beholder” blogs.

For other birdwatching trips to the Circle B Bar Reserve

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Birds of the Bible – Sparrow II

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White Crown and American Tree Sparrows
In Psalm 84:3 the sparrows are mentioned again, this time they are found making a home (nest) in the Tabernacle area. As mentioned in the first Sparrow article, they are known to make nest in many kinds of places. Let’s look at this verse in its context to understand a great blessing found here.

Psalms 84:1-4 KJV
(1) How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!
(2) My soul longeth, yea even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.
(3) Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God.
(4) Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah.

Vesper Sparrow

The commentaries have different views, but many agree that the sparrow has made her nest in the Tabernacle and is close to the altars. David’s soul is longing to be in the courts of the Lord and near the Lord. The sparrow is there, has moved in and is even raising her family there. I think he is envious of the birds because they get to spend so much time there and also they sing so often, praising God.
Do we yearn and long to spend time with the Lord, our Savior? Do we seek to be as close as we can get? Do we enjoy reading His Word, praying to Him, and attending church where we can learn, sing and praise, and have fellowship with other believers? I trust you can say a mighty, Amen!

Field Sparrow Singing

Birds of the Bible – Cuckoo

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Again we have a bird that is in a list of “unclean” birds. This time we will look at the Cuckoo. No. This is not the bird that pops out of your clock on the hour and sings. Let’s find out about the real Cuckoos.

And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckoo, and the hawk after his kind, (Deuteronomy 14:15 KJV)
And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckoo, and the hawk after his kind, (Leviticus 11:16 KJV)

Here in the U. S. we have a Black-billed, Common, Mangrove, Yellow-billed and Oriental, Cuckoos. The Common and Oriental Cuckoos have only been seen in Alaska. The Mangrove is seen along the mangroves of southern Florida and the other two like dense thickets, woodlands, orchards and along streams. Worldwide there are close to 100 species of Cuckoos. Our Roadrunner is the same family – cuculidae.

The cuckoos have a slender body with a downcurved bill and a long tail. Most of them have spots on the underside of their tails and the sexes are similiar. Many species of cuckoos have a habit of laying their eggs in another’s kind of bird’s nest and letting those parent raise the bird. The chick seems to hatch first and then either knock the other eggs out of the nest or harm the new chicks. Other cuckoos raise their own babies.

You-Tube of Cuckoo Sound with pictures and one showing warbler feeding baby. (from Poland)
(Updated 2/3/2009 – Video of Cuckoo laying egg in other nest and of a Cuckoo Duck
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Back to Birds of the Bible – Cuckoos

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Birdwatching Trip – Lake Hollingsworth 5/1/08

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Mama Redwing Blackbird feeding babies

Today was a beautiful day to watch birds. We went to Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, FL and spent a couple of hours checking out baby birds. It’s spring and they seemed to be every where. We saw baby Common Moorhens, Mallards, Wood Ducks, Limpkin, and my favorite some Redwing Blackbirds.

I was watching a female redwing fly up in the tree that had spanish moss hanging down, when she “disappeared” from view. I knew she hadn’t flown off, so I kept watching and found her in a nest. The nest was hidden from view even though it hung over the pathway around the lake.

When we first got there, I was feeding the local gang, when the resident geese spotted me. I watched them run about a block and them swarm me. They were right in my face. Then again, I’m not very tall (under 5 feet). I wasn’t handing out goodies fast enough so they were pulling on my slacks to get my attention. Even so, the Lord gave us a great day to enjoy his critters.

We had just gone to enjoy the day and take a few pictures, but never expected so many young birds. Here is a list of the birds seen today in the order we saw them:

Ring-billed Gulls, Geese, Boat-tailed Grackles, Mallards, Eurasean Collard Dove, Redwing Blackbirds, Common Moorhens, Purple Gallinules, Anhingas, Ibises, Ospreys, Blue Jays, Pied-billed Grebes, Tern, Cormorants, Coots, and Wood Ducks. Not bad for only walking about a third mile and back.

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Birds of the Bible – Lapwing

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The Lapwing is only mentioned twice in scripture and both times in a list of “unclean” birds. “But these are they of which ye shall not eat,” says Deuteronomy 14:12.

And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Leviticus 11:19 KJV)
And the stork, and the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Deuteronomy 14:18 KJV)

The only Lapwing in North America is the Northern Lapwing and then that has only been seen in isolated sightings. They are on the List of Birds of Florida. They are found in Europe and Asia near wetlands, coastal pastures and short-grass meadows or fields. They are in the same Order as Gulls, Terns and Plovers. In Europe there is also a Sociable Lapwing and a White-tailed Lapwing. “Most of the Lapwings seem to feed on insects and small prey from grasslands. They lay their eggs in nest on the ground and very protective of their young. They feign injury or will lead intruders away. If that doesn’t work, they are known to attack, even humans. They are medium sized about 12-13 inches with long legs. Their heads have a striking pattern with a wispy crest. Their behavior reminds me of a Killdeer.

Apparently the Lapwing was mentioned in three of Shakespeare’s plays: Comedy of Errors, Much Ado About Nothing and Measure for Measure

Return to Birds of the Bible Index

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Birdwatching Tips – ID Body Parts

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About.Com has some very good information on it about Birds. Today I received a newsletter giving help identifying the different parts of the bird. They were using the Passerines. The “passerines are mostly small land birds and include many familiar types of species such as flycatchers, thrushes, sparrows, and warblers. They are sometimes called songbirds because many passerine species display complex vocal behaviors, and they are sometimes called perching birds because their enlarged flexible hind toe (the hallux) allows for perching on top of vegetation and other structures.” (About.Com)
This article was worth passing on for you to view. Please check it out.
Passerine Identification