Answer:
Upon me you can tread, though softly under cover. And I will take you places, that you have yet to discover. I'm high, and I'm low, though flat in the middle. And though a joy to the children, adults think of me little.
My life can be measured in hours. I serve by being devoured. Thin, I am quick. Fat, I am slow. Wind is my foe.
It's in your hand though you can not feel it. Only you and time can reveal it.
I am always hungry, I must always be fed. The finger I lick will soon turn red.
Who is it that rows quickly with four oars, but never comes out from under his own roof?
I have a tail. I can fly. I'm covered in colorful feathers. I can whistle and I can talk