Oct 8, 2014 · It’s rare, but it’s gruesome. A praying mantis lurks on a hummingbird feeder, watching carefully as a hummingbird hovers near the sugary water. With one quick motion, the mantis grabs at …

Feb 26, 2024 · Hummingbirds are a frequent prey item for praying mantises. This may seem surprising given the size difference between the two species. However, praying mantises are actually quite …

Aug 16, 2023 · A large mantis is fully capable of catching and eating hummingbirds, so this is a serious issue. Once an individual mantis develops a fixation on your feeder, it may come back repeatedly to …

Jul 16, 2025 · Yes, praying mantises have been documented eating hummingbirds. Although it’s rare and shocking, multiple credible sources—including bird watchers, scientists, and wildlife …

Dec 17, 2025 · Once an individual mantis develops a fixation on your feeder, praying mantises can definitely kill hummingbirds. They are aggressive and violent killers. It is important to keep …

Nov 16, 2025 · You’ll discover eye-opening facts that could change how you view these fascinating garden predators—and how you can help keep your hummingbirds safe. Short Answer: Yes, praying …

Aug 26, 2025 · When a hummingbird ventures too close, often attracted to flowers or feeders where a mantis may be lurking, the mantis executes its rapid attack. The strike is swift, with the mantis …

Jul 22, 2022 · Surprising as it may seem, praying mantises do occasionally eat hummingbirds. Though it is something of an exception to the rule, it happens often enough that home gardeners and backyard …

Apr 16, 2025 · But there is one hummingbird predator that may not be aware of, due to the fact that it's an insect: the praying mantis. If you see one hanging out near your hummingbird feeder, you'll need …

This might surprise you, but a praying mantis can indeed kill and eat a hummingbird. Only large mantises around 4 inches long have the capacity to catch a hummingbird, though.