While working at his electronics shop in Brazil, Edy Varela noticed a flash of movement outside. A tiny hummingbird was darting around erratically, bumping into objects and struggling to stay airborne.
“She was weak and tired,” Varela told The Dodo. “I saw that she needed help.”
Though he wasn’t a bird expert, Varela knew she wouldn’t last long on her own. Acting quickly, he gently cupped her in his hands to keep her safe.
That’s when something extraordinary happened.
As he stepped outside holding the fragile little bird, another hummingbird appeared — her frantic mother, who had clearly been searching for her.
“I got goosebumps,” Varela said. “It was so beautiful and unique.”
Rather than leaving the fledgling in the street, Varela decided to give mother and baby a safe haven. He set up a quiet spot inside his shop where they could stay together.
For three days, the mother visited constantly, feeding and tending to her little one until she regained her strength.
When the young hummingbird was finally ready, she lifted into the air and flew away — right alongside her mom.
According to biologist Nathália Diniz, the bird was likely a fledgling still learning to fly, and the busy streets outside Varela’s shop were far from a safe training ground.
“Your decision to provide shelter was really cool,” Diniz told Varela. “In the city, a baby bird is exposed to dangers she wouldn’t face in nature.”
The story didn’t end there.
“She still passes by the store,” Varela said with a smile. “Sometimes she even comes inside.”
Thanks to his kindness, a little hummingbird not only survived but found her wings — and a human friend who will always remember her visit.
This rare and beautiful encounter between Edy and the baby hummingbird melted hearts all over the internet.
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