Praying Mantises Can Eat Hummingbirds

Thread starter BillTre
Start date Sep 25, 2017

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SUMMARY

Praying mantises are capable of preying on small birds, including hummingbirds, as highlighted in a recent NY Times article. The discussion reveals the formidable nature of these insects, with one user recounting an observation of a praying mantis engaging in a lengthy battle with a puppy near the Great Wall of China. This showcases the mantis's strength and predatory instincts, emphasizing their role in the ecosystem as apex predators among insects.

PREREQUISITES

Understanding of insect predation behaviors
Familiarity with the ecological roles of praying mantises
Knowledge of bird species, particularly hummingbirds
Awareness of wildlife observation techniques

NEXT STEPS

Research the ecological impact of praying mantises on bird populations
Explore the anatomy and hunting techniques of praying mantises
Learn about the behavior and habitat of hummingbirds
Investigate other instances of insect predation on small vertebrates

USEFUL FOR

Wildlife enthusiasts, ecologists, bird watchers, and anyone interested in the predatory dynamics of insects and their impact on small bird species.

Sep 25, 2017

BillTre

Science Advisor

Gold Member

and other small birds
NY Times article.

Biology news on Phys.org

Sep 25, 2017

TeethWhitener

Science Advisor

Gold Member

Welp, that's terrifying.

Sep 25, 2017

Greg Bernhardt

Admin

Insights Author

I just had a cute hummingbird check me out yesterday!

Praying Mantis can be big and tough. In China near the Great Wall I once watched a Praying Mantis fight a puppy. It took the puppy near 30min it kill it.