What to Do If There’s a Praying Mantis on Your Hummingbird Feeder
August 24, 2023
source: Panoply
Encountering a praying mantis on your hummingbird feeder can be quite a surprise. These charismatic insects are known for their distinctive appearance and captivating behavior, but did you know that they can pose a potential threat to the delicate hummingbirds that visit your feeder? Don’t worry, though—there are steps you can take to ensure the safety of both the mantis and the hummingbirds.
First things first, let’s address the pressing question: Will a praying mantis actually eat a hummingbird? The answer is yes, they can do it. Praying mantises are skilled predators with an appetite for small insects and even other small animals. While hummingbirds may not be their primary prey, mantises are opportunistic feeders, and if given the chance, they won’t hesitate to catch a hummingbird.
Now, onto the important part: prevention. If you want to create a hummingbird-friendly environment without putting these amazing birds at risk, there are a few strategies you can employ.
Feeder Placement: One of the simplest preventive measures is to place your hummingbird feeder away from areas where praying mantises are commonly found. If possible, hang the feeder in a location where mantises are less likely to venture. This might be away from tall plants, shrubs, or other places where mantises could hide and ambush the hummingbirds.
Natural Barriers: Consider placing natural barriers around the feeder. This could be done by hanging fine mesh netting around the feeder area, making it difficult for mantises to access it. Just ensure that the netting is spaced in a way that doesn’t hinder the hummingbirds’ flight.
Frequent Monitoring: Regularly check your feeder for any unwanted visitors. If you spot a praying mantis, it’s best to remove it promptly. You can gently scoop it up and relocate it to a safer area away from the hummingbird feeder.
Pruning and Cleaning: Trim any nearby plants or branches that could serve as launching points for mantises to reach the feeder. Additionally, keep the area around the feeder clean and clear of debris. This will help reduce the chances of mantises finding their way to the feeder.
If you happen to encounter a praying mantis on your hummingbird feeder despite your best efforts, here’s what you can do:
Remove It: Use a gentle approach to remove the mantis from the feeder. You can carefully encourage it to climb onto a stick or another object and then move it to a more suitable habitat.
Create a Safe Zone: Consider creating a “hummingbird haven” in your yard. This could be an area with dense vegetation where hummingbirds can rest, find food, and avoid potential predators.
Educate Others: Share your newfound knowledge about praying mantises and hummingbird feeders with friends, family, and fellow bird enthusiasts. Spreading awareness about this issue can help protect these beautiful birds.
It’s all about finding a balance between enjoying the beauty of nature and ensuring the well-being of its inhabitants. By taking these preventative measures and knowing what to do if you encounter a praying mantis on your hummingbird feeder, you can help create a safer environment for both these unique insects and the stunning hummingbirds that grace your yard.