60 Smart and Funny Responses to “The Early Bird Gets the Worm”

.The phrase “The early bird gets the worm” has been around for ages, and it’s often used to encourage early risers to take advantage of opportunities. But for some of us, the early morning hours are not our time to shine.

We’ve all heard the saying and may have even used it ourselves, but that doesn’t mean we agree with it. There’s always room for a little humor or an alternative perspective, right?

If you’re someone who prefers staying cozy in bed a little longer or you just want to give a clever comeback, then this article is for you. Here, we’ve compiled 60 smart and funny responses to “The early bird gets the worm” that will have you chuckling and maybe even challenging the idea of waking up with the sun.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy these witty comebacks to one of the most famous phrases.

Table of Contents

List of Witty Responses to “The Early Bird Gets the Worm

Here are 60 smart and funny responses to “The Early Bird Gets the Worm”

But the second mouse gets the cheese.
I’m more of a night owl.
Good thing I’m not a bird.
I prefer my worms cooked and served for brunch.
And the late riser gets the bacon.
I’m not after worms anyway.
But the early worm gets eaten.
I guess I’ll stick with cereal.
What about the early cat? Does it get the bird?
I’m allergic to worms.
I like my sleep more than worms.
I guess I’m more of a late riser who gets the coffee.
The early bird gets the worm, but the second bird gets to sleep in.
I prefer pancakes to worms.
I’ll take the worm under advisement.
Who wants worms when you can have waffles?
I’m not sure worms are worth losing sleep over.
The early bird can have the worm; I’ll have a croissant.
I think I’ll leave the worms to the birds.
I’m aiming for a different diet.
The early bird might get the worm, but the late bird gets to watch Netflix.
I’d rather be a well-rested bird.
The early worm should’ve stayed in bed.
I’d prefer a donut to a worm.
Worms just aren’t my thing.
I’ll let the early birds have the worms.
I’d rather get the second cup of coffee.
I’ll catch the worm on my own time.
Worms are overrated.
I don’t do worms before coffee.
I like to sleep in and let the early birds do the work.
Worms are a bit too crunchy for my taste.
I believe in a balanced breakfast, not worms.
I’ll let the early bird have the worms; I’m after something sweeter.
I’m on a no-worm diet.
The early bird can have the worm; I’ll have the bagel.
The worm can wait.
I’ll pass on the worms, thanks.
The early bird gets the worm, but the night owl gets the party.
I’d rather be a late bird with style.
Worms are not my breakfast of choice.
I’m more of a brunch kind of person.
I’d rather catch the brunch special.
Let the birds have their worms; I’ll have my sleep.
The worm can keep the early bird company.
I’ll catch up with the worm later.
The early bird might get the worm, but I got a good night’s sleep.
I’m aiming for something bigger than a worm.
I’ll let the early birds handle the worms.
I prefer my worms with a side of sleep.
The early bird can keep the worms.
I’m more of a “get the worm after 9 AM” person.
I’ll wait for the worm to come to me.
Worms are for the birds.
I’d rather catch a latte.
I’m more into bagels than worms.
The worm isn’t worth the early wake-up.
I’ll take a rain check on the worms.
I’m more interested in the bacon than the worm.
I guess I’ll have to pass on the worms.

1. But the second mouse gets the cheese.

Sometimes, being second is not a bad thing. The first mouse might get the trap, but the second one gets the prize: the cheese. Life’s not always about rushing to the front—sometimes it’s about timing.

Example: “Sure, the early bird might get the worm, but I’ll take the cheese.”
Example: “It’s all about waiting for the right moment, like the second mouse with the cheese.”
Example: “Not every race needs to be won by the early starter, sometimes the second mouse has the better prize.”

2. I’m more of a night owl.

The night owl is often seen as the antithesis of the early bird. While the early bird gets the worm, the night owl thrives in the dark. It’s a whole different rhythm, one that’s more creative and often more productive at night.

Example: “I guess the night owl gets the moon instead of the worm.”
Example: “I’m not interested in the worm, I’m more of a night owl who sleeps in.”
Example: “While the early bird gets the worm, the night owl gets to sleep in and enjoy the stars.”

3. Good thing I’m not a bird.

Birds are known for getting up early, but you, on the other hand, have no interest in worms or early hours. Not being a bird means you don’t need to follow their early riser routine. You’ll take your time, thank you.

Example: “Good thing I’m not a bird, I don’t need to follow the worm-chasing schedule.”
Example: “The bird might get the worm, but I’m happy skipping it entirely.”
Example: “Not being a bird has its perks—I don’t have to wake up at dawn.”

4. I prefer my worms cooked and served for brunch.

Who says worms have to be eaten first thing in the morning? Why not have a more sophisticated take on them? Brunch can be a great alternative. It’s less rushed and offers a chance to enjoy a delicious meal, even if it’s not worms.

Example: “I’ll take my worms with some eggs and toast at brunch.”
Example: “The early bird may get the worm, but I prefer mine cooked for a leisurely brunch.”
Example: “Worms are great, but they taste better with mimosas.”

5. And the late riser gets the bacon.

Bacon is often the reward for those who take their time and wake up a little later. Maybe the late riser doesn’t get the worm, but they definitely get something tastier. Bacon sounds like the perfect alternative!

Example: “Sure, the early bird gets the worm, but I’ll take the bacon and enjoy a longer snooze.”
Example: “The early bird gets the worm, but the late riser gets the good stuff—bacon!”
Example: “I’m fine with being the late riser—bacon tastes better than worms anyway.”

6. I’m not after worms anyway.

Not all creatures are into worms. If you’re not interested in worms, why even bother with the idea of waking up early for them? Maybe you have better things to do, or you just aren’t interested in the traditional prize.

Example: “I’m not after worms; I’m more interested in something sweeter, like a croissant.”
Example: “The worm doesn’t do anything for me, I’m more into coffee than anything else.”
Example: “I’ll pass on the worm—I’m more of a snack person.”

7. But the early worm gets eaten.

The early bird may get the worm, but that worm doesn’t have the best fate. In fact, being early isn’t always the best choice—it might lead to getting eaten! So, maybe sleeping in is the safer bet.

Example: “Sure, the early worm might get eaten, but the late one gets to live another day.”
Example: “The worm might get eaten, but I’ll be sleeping comfortably in my bed, thanks.”
Example: “The early worm has its risks—getting eaten doesn’t sound like a good start to the day.”

8. I guess I’ll stick with cereal.

When it comes to breakfast, cereal has been a reliable choice for many. It’s easy, quick, and doesn’t involve any worms. Sometimes, simple options are just the best.

Example: “I think I’ll stick with my cereal, thanks. No worms for me!”
Example: “The early bird gets the worm, but I prefer cereal to start my day.”
Example: “Worms seem overrated, I’m happy with a bowl of cereal and some peace.”

9. What about the early cat? Does it get the bird?

If the early bird gets the worm, does the early cat get the bird? Maybe it’s time to rethink this whole idea of being first. There’s a whole other side to this early game!

Example: “The early bird gets the worm, but does the early cat get the bird?”
Example: “If I were an early cat, I’d be after the bird, not the worm.”
Example: “Who’s thinking about the birds and worms when there’s a hungry cat involved?”

10. I’m allergic to worms.

It’s possible that some people are just allergic to the idea of worms altogether. And why would you want to deal with something that makes you uncomfortable when you could have a peaceful morning without it?

Example: “I’d stay away from worms if I were you. I’m allergic to them!”
Example: “I don’t want the worm, I’m more concerned about my allergy to them.”
Example: “The worm isn’t worth it when I’m allergic to the whole idea.”

11. I like my sleep more than worms.

There’s something to be said for prioritizing sleep. Why wake up early for a worm when you can rest a little longer and be more refreshed for the day?

Example: “I like my sleep more than I like worms, thank you very much.”
Example: “Why rush out of bed when I can enjoy my sleep and still be productive?”
Example: “I’m not chasing after the worm, I’m chasing sleep.”

12. I guess I’m more of a late riser who gets the coffee.

Some people wake up late, but they make sure to enjoy the best part of the morning: coffee! It’s not about the worm—it’s about the caffeine.

Example: “The early bird might get the worm, but the late riser gets the coffee.”
Example: “I’ll take coffee over a worm any day.”
Example: “The worm can wait; my coffee needs me now.”

13. The early bird gets the worm, but the second bird gets to sleep in.

There’s always the option of waiting for the second bird to get involved. Sleeping in is a luxury that comes with being the second bird, and you get to enjoy the comforts of waking up later.

Example: “The early bird gets the worm, but the second bird gets to stay in bed longer.”
Example: “I’ll happily be the second bird who gets more rest.”
Example: “Waking up early sounds overrated; I’ll be the second bird with extra sleep.”

14. I prefer pancakes to worms.

Who says you have to go for worms when pancakes are available? A classic, comforting breakfast is sometimes a better choice than something that crawls.

Example: “Pancakes sound much better than worms, don’t you think?”
Example: “I’m opting for pancakes instead of chasing after worms.”
Example: “The early bird can have its worm—I’ll take a stack of pancakes.”

15. I’ll take the worm under advisement.

When it comes to breakfast, maybe the worm doesn’t seem like the best choice, but you’re still open to considering it.

Example: “The worm sounds tempting, but I’ll take it under advisement before committing.”
Example: “Sure, I’ll think about the worm, but I’m not sold yet.”
Example: “I’ll consider the worm, but I’m more likely to have some toast.”

16. Who wants worms when you can have waffles?

Waffles are an irresistible breakfast choice. They’re hot, crispy, and perfect with toppings. Who needs worms when you’ve got this delicious treat?

Example: “Waffles are way better than worms, and that’s a fact.”
Example: “Forget the worm—waffles with syrup are where it’s at.”
Example: “If I had to choose, I’d pick waffles over worms any day.”

17. I’m not sure worms are worth losing sleep over.

It’s hard to believe that worms are worth waking up early for. Sometimes sleep is just more valuable than anything else.

Example: “Waking up for worms seems overrated when sleep is so precious.”
Example: “I’m not giving up my sleep for a worm, thanks.”
Example: “The worm will still be there after a nice, restful sleep.”

18. The early bird can have the worm; I’ll have a croissant.

Why settle for worms when you can have something fancier? Croissants offer that little taste of luxury that worms just can’t compete with.

Example: “The early bird can chase the worm, but I’ll take a buttery croissant.”
Example: “Croissants > worms. Simple math.”
Example: “I’ll trade the worm for a croissant and a cup of tea.”

19. I think I’ll leave the worms to the birds.

Not all foods are for everyone. Maybe the worms just aren’t for you, and it’s better to let the birds take care of them.

Example: “The worms can stay with the birds; I’m fine without them.”
Example: “I’ll let the birds do their thing, and I’ll enjoy my breakfast without worms.”
Example: “The early bird can have the worms, I’ll enjoy a fresh bagel.”

20. I’m aiming for a different diet.

Maybe you’re changing up your eating habits. Worms aren’t on your list, and you’ve got bigger plans for breakfast.

Example: “I’m sticking to my diet, and worms aren’t part of it.”
Example: “Worms? Not on my menu. I’ve got a new diet.”
Example: “I’ll pass on the worms and aim for something that fits my lifestyle.”

21. Maybe the worm is overrated.

Sometimes the worm isn’t even that great. Maybe the bird’s choices need a little reconsideration. You don’t need to wake up early for mediocre things.

Example: “The worm might not be as impressive as everyone thinks.”
Example: “What’s so special about a worm, anyway?”
Example: “I think I’ll skip the worm and go for something better.”

22. I prefer sleeping through the bird’s alarm.

Why rush when you can just snooze your way through the bird’s noisy alarm? A little extra sleep is always a good decision.

Example: “I’ll be dreaming through the early bird’s alarm. Enjoy the worm.”
Example: “I’ll leave the early wake-up calls to the birds and sleep in.”
Example: “The bird can have its worm; I’ll be too busy dreaming.”

23. The early bird can have its worm, I’m having waffles.

Waffles trump worms in any situation. They’re crispy, fluffy, and so much more satisfying.

Example: “I’ll take waffles over worms any day of the week.”
Example: “The worm’s cool, but waffles are on a whole other level.”
Example: “Forget the worm; a warm stack of waffles sounds better.”

24. I’ll wait for a better snack.

Sometimes, patience is the best choice. There’s always a better snack just around the corner that doesn’t involve worms.

Example: “I’ll hold out for something tastier. No worms for me.”
Example: “The worm might be available, but I’m waiting for a better option.”
Example: “I’ll skip the worm. Something better will come along.”

25. I’m more of a night owl, thank you.

Why rush the morning when you’re a night owl? Late nights and relaxed mornings are where it’s at.

Example: “The worm can wait. I’m not an early riser.”
Example: “I’d rather stay up late than get up early for worms.”
Example: “The early bird may get the worm, but the night owl gets the best sleep.”

26. I’ve got other plans for breakfast.

Breakfast is a special meal, and worms don’t even make it onto the menu. Something delicious is waiting instead.

Example: “I’ve got a nice bowl of cereal waiting for me. No worms involved.”
Example: “I’ll stick to my pancakes, thanks—no room for worms.”
Example: “You enjoy the worm, I’ll enjoy my smoothie.”

27. I’m in no rush to chase the worm.

Why hurry when you can enjoy a slow morning? Taking your time might be the key to happiness.

Example: “I’m not chasing any worms today; I’m enjoying my coffee.”
Example: “The worm can take its time. I’m not in a hurry.”
Example: “I’ll enjoy my breakfast and not worry about the worm.”

28. I’d rather sleep than worm-hunt.

Sometimes, a warm bed is more appealing than any early morning worm chase.

Example: “Sleep over worm-hunting any day!”
Example: “I’m skipping the hunt. My bed is too comfortable.”
Example: “I’d rather sleep in than be out there chasing worms.”

29. I’m not a fan of worm cuisine.

Not all foods are to everyone’s taste. Worms just don’t make the cut for some people.

Example: “Worms? Not on my plate today.”
Example: “I’ll pass on the worm and go for something more appealing.”
Example: “The worm doesn’t seem very appetizing to me.”

30. The worm’s for the birds, not me.

Some things are meant for others. The worm doesn’t need to be yours, so let the birds have their feast.

Example: “That worm looks better suited for the birds.”
Example: “I’ll stick with my breakfast, thanks. The worm’s all yours, bird.”
Example: “I’ll let the birds have their share; I’ve got better things to do.”

31. I’ll pass on the worm. I’ve got coffee to chase.

Why bother with worms when you can be chasing after a cup of coffee instead? Priorities matter.

Example: “The worm can wait. I’ve got coffee to keep me going.”
Example: “I’ll take my coffee over any worm.”
Example: “I’d rather have caffeine than worms first thing in the morning.”

32. I’ll take the second mouse’s route.

Sometimes the second mouse gets the cheese. And, honestly, who wants to be first anyway? Let someone else grab the worm while you take your time and reap the rewards.

Example: “I’ll take my time and get the cheese, not the worm.”
Example: “The second mouse has a better idea, doesn’t it?”
Example: “I’ll pass on the early rush, but I’ll enjoy my cheese.”

33. I’ll let the birds do the hard work.

Why work so hard when you can let the birds do all the effort while you relax? Sometimes it’s nice to enjoy the fruits of others’ labor.

Example: “I’ll let the early birds handle the worm while I rest.”
Example: “The bird can work for it; I’ll just enjoy the worm when it arrives.”
Example: “I’ll let others earn their worms while I enjoy the quiet morning.”

34. Why settle for a worm when you can have a donut?

If you’re going to enjoy something, make it something worth waking up for. Donuts trump worms any day!

Example: “Worms? Nah, I’ll take a donut instead.”
Example: “I’ll stick to my donut and coffee, thanks.”
Example: “Why wake up early for a worm when a donut is waiting?”

35. The early bird gets the worm, but the night owl gets the party.

If you want the nightlife, it’s better to skip the worm and go out for some fun. The birds might have their worms, but night owls have the best time.

Example: “The bird can get the worm, but I’ll take the after-party.”
Example: “I’d rather be out at night, living it up, than hunting worms.”
Example: “I’m a night owl, so I’ll take the fun over a worm.”

36. I’ll be catching some Z’s, not worms.

A good sleep is much more valuable than a worm. Let the birds do the work; you’ll rest and be ready for later.

Example: “Sleep is more important than any worm.”
Example: “The bird can catch the worm, but I’ll catch up on some sleep.”
Example: “I’ll be getting some beauty rest while the bird works.”

37. Maybe I’ll wake up after the worm gets eaten.

Why be in a rush when you can simply enjoy the quiet of the morning after the rush is over?

Example: “I’ll wake up when the worm’s already been eaten.”
Example: “No need to rush. The worm will still be around later.”
Example: “I’ll let others get the worm. I’ll enjoy my lazy morning.”

38. The worm has too much drama; I’m avoiding it.

Sometimes, the worm just seems like it comes with too much hassle. Why get involved in all that drama?

Example: “I’m staying clear of the worm’s mess.”
Example: “The worm doesn’t seem worth all the effort.”
Example: “I’ll skip the drama and go for something calm.”

39. I’ll take my chances with the second worm.

Why settle for the first worm when the second might be even better? A little patience can go a long way.

Example: “I’ll take my chances and wait for the second worm.”
Example: “The first worm might be overrated. I’ll wait for a better one.”
Example: “I’m patient enough to wait for the second worm.”

40. I’ll catch my worm when I feel like it.

Some people are control freaks about their mornings, but you’re just going to play it cool and catch the worm when it suits you best.

Example: “I’ll catch the worm when I’m ready.”
Example: “The worm isn’t going anywhere. I’ll wait until I’m ready.”
Example: “It’s my schedule. I’ll catch the worm when I decide to.”

41. I’ll wait for the worm to come to me.

Why rush for something when you can just relax and wait for it to come to you? The worm will eventually show up, right?

Example: “I’ll let the worm find me, no need to chase it.”
Example: “Why wake up early when the worm will come to me later?”
Example: “I’m not hunting for worms. They can come to me when they’re ready.”

42. I’m more of a second-chance kind of person.

The first worm might be too fast. But the second one? It’s usually better and less competitive. Plus, who needs the rush?

Example: “I like to take my time, so I’ll wait for the second worm.”
Example: “The first worm can fight the bird, I’ll take a second chance.”
Example: “I’m patient enough to wait for the second worm. It’ll be worth it.”

43. I’ll catch my worm with style.

Why grab the worm in a rush when you can do it with some style? After all, it’s about the journey, not the rush.

Example: “I’ll grab my worm, but it’ll be in style.”
Example: “Why hustle for the worm when I can catch it gracefully?”
Example: “I’m not just catching a worm, I’m catching it with swagger.”

44. I don’t need worms. I’ve got goals.

Worms are nice, but what’s even better is focusing on bigger goals. The early bird can have its worm, you’re after something more meaningful.

Example: “I’ll leave the worm for the birds. I’ve got bigger plans.”
Example: “Worms won’t get me anywhere, but ambition will.”
Example: “The bird can catch its worm; I’m chasing after my dreams.”

45. The worm’s probably overrated anyway.

Let’s be honest, worms aren’t as exciting as everyone makes them out to be. You can probably get something better later in the day.

Example: “Maybe the worm is overrated. I’ll find something better.”
Example: “The worm doesn’t seem like a good deal. I’ll take my chances.”
Example: “Worms are a little too slimy for my taste.”

46. I’ll skip the worm; I’m more into croissants.

Croissants are much more satisfying than worms, especially when paired with a good cup of coffee.

Example: “Why chase after worms when you can enjoy a warm croissant?”
Example: “I’ll stick to croissants instead of worms, thank you.”
Example: “I’m more into buttery pastries than slimy worms.”

47. I’m allergic to worms anyway.

Some people just aren’t meant to eat worms, and that’s perfectly fine. Allergies make it easy to say “no thanks.”

Example: “I’d love to, but I’m allergic to worms.”
Example: “I can’t touch worms. Allergic reaction, you know.”
Example: “No worms for me, I’ve got a reaction.”

48. I prefer my worms in a salad.

When it comes to worms, presentation matters. I’ll take my worms with some lettuce and maybe a little dressing.

Example: “I’ll take my worms as part of a salad, thanks.”
Example: “Maybe a little vinegar and olive oil for the worms?”
Example: “I think worms go better in a salad than just straight up.”

49. I don’t chase worms. I chase dreams.

The early bird can go after the worm, but you? You’re after much bigger things, like your dreams.

Example: “I’ve got bigger goals than just a worm.”
Example: “I’m chasing dreams, not worms.”
Example: “Worms can wait; I’ve got dreams to chase.”

50. I’ll take the worm when it’s on sale.

Why spend all that effort chasing the worm when you can get a deal later in the day?

Example: “I’ll take my worm when it’s on sale.”
Example: “There’s no rush for me; I’ll wait for the worm to be discounted.”
Example: “I’m not after the first worm. I’ll take a better one later.”

51. Who needs worms when you’ve got eggs?

Why settle for the worm when you can have the entire breakfast? Eggs are way more satisfying.

Example: “Forget the worm, I’ll go for the eggs.”
Example: “Worms are overrated. I’ll stick with some delicious scrambled eggs.”
Example: “Who needs worms when you can have eggs, toast, and bacon?”

52. I’ll take the worm as long as it’s stuffed.

Sometimes the best worms are the stuffed ones. A little extra effort can make all the difference.

Example: “If the worm’s stuffed with something, I might reconsider.”
Example: “I’ll have the worm if it comes with cheese.”
Example: “I prefer a stuffed worm over a plain one.”

53. I’ll leave the worm to the experts.

The birds seem to have mastered the art of worm-catching, so why not leave it to the professionals?

Example: “Let the experts handle the worm. I’ll stick to what I know.”
Example: “The birds are better equipped for the worm hunt.”
Example: “I’m not an expert, so I’ll leave the worm to the birds.”

54. I’m saving my energy for the worm’s next appearance.

There’s no need to exert all your energy for the worm when it’ll be around again later.

Example: “I’m saving my energy for when the worm reappears.”
Example: “The worm can wait. I’ll catch it when I’m well-rested.”
Example: “I’m not in a rush for the worm. I’ll let it come to me.”

55. The worm can wait until my morning coffee kicks in.

First things first—coffee. Once you’ve had your cup, then you can think about catching that worm.

Example: “The worm can wait while I get my coffee.”
Example: “No worm-catching until I’ve had my morning brew.”
Example: “I’ll get the worm after my coffee takes full effect.”

56. I’m not a morning person, but I’ll catch the worm anyway.

Sometimes you’ve got to push through even if you’re not a morning person. Just take it slow and steady.

Example: “I may not be a morning person, but I can still grab the worm.”
Example: “The early bird catches the worm, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it.”
Example: “Not a morning person, but I’ll still get my worm with some effort.”

57. Worms are great, but I’m into adventure.

Why go for a worm when there are adventures to be had instead? You’re all about exploring, not worm-catching.

Example: “I’m into bigger adventures than just worms.”
Example: “I’ll skip the worm and find my own exciting journey.”
Example: “Why settle for a worm when you can have a grand adventure?”

58. I’ll take the worm if it’s served with spices.

Sometimes the worm needs a little flavor to make it more appealing. A little spice goes a long way.

Example: “If the worm comes with some spice, then maybe I’ll bite.”
Example: “I’ll take my worm with a little bit of kick.”
Example: “Worms are fine, but I need some seasoning.”

59. I’ll leave the worm, I’m more of a pizza person.

Why go after the worm when you can have a pizza instead? Simple choices make life better.

Example: “Worms are nice, but pizza beats them every time.”
Example: “I’ll take a pizza over worms, thanks.”
Example: “Who wants worms when you’ve got pizza?”

60. The worm can have its own time; I’ll take mine later.

There’s no rush when it comes to catching the worm. You’ll catch it when it’s your time.

Example: “I’ll take the worm when it’s on my time.”
Example: “No rush for me. I’ll catch the worm later.”
Example: “The worm’s fine, but I’m not in any hurry.”

Conclusion

Whether you’re a morning person or not, there’s no denying that the early bird doesn’t always have the best deal. It gets the worm, but the rest of us might get something even better: more sleep, better food, and a slower pace.

So next time someone tells you that “the early bird gets the worm,” you can confidently give them one of these funny responses.

After all, we all have our own way of enjoying the morning—whether it’s pancakes, coffee, or just more sleep.