Question

Writing

Task 2. In the article, "A Mighty Flier," you learned about the world's smallest bird, the bee

hummingbird. Write a short essay in which you compare and contrast the hummingbird to any

other type of bird. In your writing, list five ways the hummingbird is similar to other bird you

choose. Then, list five ways a hummingbird is different from the other bird.

You should

Brainstorm Similarities and differences

• Use the following organization of the essay

an introduction which clearly defines the topic to be covered;

the main body, in which the topic is further developed in detail;

the conclusion-summary of the topic or a final opinion, recommendation or comment.

.

.

.

Use Words and Short Phrases to Compare

like

likewise

same as

as well as i

also, too

Use Words and Short Phrases to Contrast

unlike

in contrast to

as opposed to

different from whereas

Answer 1

**Title: A Comparison and Contrast of Bee Hummingbirds and Sparrows**

Birds are fascinating creatures that come in a vast array of shapes and sizes. Among them, the bee hummingbird, the smallest bird in the world, is a remarkable specimen. In this essay, we will explore the similarities and differences between bee hummingbirds and sparrows, a common bird species.

**Similarities:**

1. **Feathered Creatures:** Both bee hummingbirds and sparrows are avian species with feathers covering their bodies. These feathers serve to regulate their body temperature and aid in flight.

2. **Bipedal Locomotion:** These birds share a common characteristic of bipedal locomotion, using their two hind limbs for walking and hopping.

3. **Foraging Behavior:** Both species exhibit foraging behavior. Bee hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and insects, while sparrows predominantly forage for seeds and insects.

4. **Nesting and Reproduction:** Bee hummingbirds and sparrows build nests to raise their young. Both species engage in parental care and protect their nests from potential threats.

5. **Migratory Patterns:** Bee hummingbirds and sparrows are known for their migratory behaviors. They undertake long-distance migrations during seasonal changes in search of more favorable environmental conditions.

**Differences:**

1. **Size:** The most obvious difference between these two birds is their size. The bee hummingbird is incredibly tiny, measuring around 2-2.4 inches in length and weighing less than a nickel. Sparrows, on the other hand, are considerably larger, with an average length of 5-7 inches.

2. **Diet:** While both birds are nectar feeders, bee hummingbirds primarily rely on nectar as their primary food source, supplemented with insects. Sparrows, in contrast, have an omnivorous diet that includes seeds, insects, and occasionally nectar.

3. **Flight Patterns:** Bee hummingbirds are renowned for their hovering flight, thanks to their unique wing structure and rapid wing beats. Sparrows, conversely, have a more conventional flapping flight pattern.

4. **Habitat:** Bee hummingbirds are primarily found in tropical regions of the Americas, residing in places with lush vegetation and abundant flowers. Sparrows, on the other hand, adapt to a wide range of habitats and are commonly seen in urban, suburban, and rural settings.

5. **Physical Characteristics:** Bee hummingbirds often display iridescent plumage and distinctive long, slender bills adapted for nectar feeding. Sparrows have more subdued coloring, with brown, gray, or white plumage, and short, stout beaks suited for seed cracking.

In conclusion, bee hummingbirds and sparrows, though sharing some common traits as birds, are significantly different in terms of size, diet, flight patterns, habitat preferences, and physical characteristics. These unique features allow each species to thrive in their respective ecological niches, highlighting the remarkable diversity within the avian world.