Hummingbirds face an array of surprising threats in our backyards and gardens. Several North American hummingbird species have experienced significant declines since 1970.1
While habitat loss and climate change play major roles, predation remains an often overlooked factor in hummingbird conservation.
From unexpected insect ambushes to stealthy feline hunters, the list of potential predators is both diverse and alarming. Here are 12 creatures that pose a threat to hummingbirds.
1. Praying Mantises
These patient predators are perhaps the most unexpected hummingbird hunters. Praying mantises lie in wait on flowers or feeders, their alien-like forms camouflaged perfectly.
When an unsuspecting hummingbird approaches, the mantis strikes with lightning speed, impaling the bird with its spiked forelegs.
Studies have found that praying mantises, especially the larger Chinese mantis, can successfully capture and consume hummingbirds. In fact, a study published in The Wilson Journal of Ornithology revealed that only 2% of hummingbirds caught by mantises were able to escape on their own. (ref)
This grim statistic highlights the very real threat these insects pose to our tiny feathered friends.
2. Domestic & Feral Cats
Our feline companions, both pets and strays, are major predators of hummingbirds. Cats are skilled hunters with lightning-fast reflexes, making even the agile hummingbird an attainable target.
Their keen eyesight and patience allow them to stalk feeders or flowers, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce.
The impact of cats on bird populations is staggering. According to the American Bird Conservancy, cats kill an estimated 2.4 billion birds annually. (ref) Hummingbirds, with their predictable feeding patterns and small size, are particularly vulnerable to feline predation.
3. Sharp-shinned Hawks
These small, agile raptors are perfectly adapted to pursue quick-moving prey like hummingbirds. Sharp-shinned hawks are known for their impressive aerial maneuvers, allowing them to chase hummingbirds through dense foliage.
Their small size enables them to navigate tight spaces where larger hawks cannot follow.
While hummingbirds make up only a small portion of a sharp-shinned hawk’s diet, they are certainly on the menu. These hawks are opportunistic hunters and will not pass up an easy meal if a hummingbird presents itself.
Birdwatchers have occasionally witnessed the dramatic sight of a sharp-shinned hawk snatching a hummingbird mid-flight.
4. Snakes
Various snake species, particularly those adept at climbing, pose a threat to hummingbirds and their nests. Rat snakes, garter snakes, and other arboreal species are known to raid nests for eggs and chicks.
Adult hummingbirds are not immune either, as some snakes can strike with surprising speed from a coiled position.
In tropical regions where hummingbirds are more diverse, snakes play a larger role as predators. Some species have even been observed lurking near hummingbird feeders, taking advantage of the birds’ regular visits.
While less common in temperate areas, snakes remain a potential danger that hummingbirds must be wary of.
5. Frogs & Large Fish
Some aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures have been documented preying on hummingbirds. Large frogs, particularly bullfrogs, have been known to snatch hummingbirds that venture too close to water sources.
These opportunistic amphibians will eat almost anything they can fit in their mouths.
Even more surprisingly, there are reports of large fish, such as bass, catching hummingbirds that skim too close to the water’s surface. While these incidents are rare, they demonstrate the diverse range of potential threats hummingbirds face.
It’s a stark reminder that danger can come from unexpected places in nature.
6. Dragonflies
These aerial acrobats, known for their impressive flying skills, can sometimes turn their hunting prowess on hummingbirds.
Large dragonfly species, such as darners, have been observed attacking and even killing hummingbirds. Their powerful jaws and excellent vision make them formidable opponents.
While not a common occurrence, documented cases of dragonfly predation on hummingbirds exist. A photograph captured a common green darner dragonfly feeding on a ruby-throated hummingbird. (ref)
7. Orb-weaver Spiders
These master web-builders create intricate traps that can ensnare small birds, including hummingbirds. While hummingbirds often visit spider webs to collect silk for nest-building, they can become entangled in larger, stronger webs.
Once trapped, they may fall victim to the spider or simply be unable to free themselves.
Orb-weavers are opportunistic and will consume any prey that becomes trapped in their webs. While a hummingbird is a large catch for most spiders, some tropical species are capable of subduing and consuming these tiny birds.
Hummingbird enthusiasts should be aware of large spider webs near feeders and take steps to reduce this potential hazard.
8. Loggerhead Shrikes
Often called “butcher birds” for their habit of impaling prey on thorns or barbed wire, loggerhead shrikes are surprisingly effective hummingbird predators.
These songbirds have a raptor-like beak that allows them to take on prey items larger than typical for their size. Their hunting strategy involves perching and scanning for potential victims.
While shrikes primarily feed on large insects and small rodents, they won’t hesitate to attack hummingbirds when the opportunity arises. Their method of impaling prey serves as a way to store food for later consumption, which can be particularly gruesome when the victim is a colorful hummingbird.
9. Greater Roadrunners
These charismatic ground-dwelling birds of the American Southwest are known for their diverse diet, which can include hummingbirds.
Roadrunners are swift runners and agile hunters. They can snatch small birds from the air or ambush them at feeders. Their long legs and quick reflexes give them an advantage in catching prey.
Observations of roadrunners preying on hummingbirds are relatively rare but well-documented. These opportunistic hunters will stake out hummingbird feeders, patiently waiting for the right moment to strike.
Their ability to adapt to urban and suburban environments means they may pose a threat to hummingbirds even in backyard settings.
10. Crows & Jays
These intelligent corvids are known nest raiders and will not hesitate to prey on hummingbird eggs or nestlings. Their problem-solving abilities and keen eyesight make them adept at locating and accessing well-hidden nests.
Adult hummingbirds are generally too quick for these larger birds, but their offspring are vulnerable.
Crows and jays are opportunistic feeders that learn quickly. If they discover a reliable food source like a hummingbird nest, they may return repeatedly.
This behavior can have a significant impact on local hummingbird populations, especially in urban areas where corvids thrive.
11. Bats
While most bats feed on insects or fruit, some larger species have been known to prey on small birds, including hummingbirds.
This is particularly true in tropical regions where both hummingbirds and bats are more diverse. Some bat species have evolved to become specialized bird hunters.
The risk to hummingbirds from bats is generally low in temperate regions. However, in areas where they coexist with larger, carnivorous bat species, hummingbirds must remain vigilant even after dark.
The silent flight of bats makes them especially dangerous nocturnal predators.
12. Opossums
These nocturnal marsupials, while often overlooked, can pose a threat to hummingbirds, particularly their nests and eggs. Opossums are excellent climbers and have a diverse diet that includes small birds and eggs.
Their keen sense of smell helps them locate nests, even those well-hidden by hummingbirds. While adult hummingbirds are usually too quick for opossums, nestlings and eggs are vulnerable to these opportunistic feeders.
Opossums are adaptable creatures that thrive in urban and suburban environments, bringing them into frequent contact with backyard hummingbird habitats. Their presence serves as a reminder that hummingbirds face threats from both day and night predators.
The world of hummingbirds is fraught with more dangers than many realize. Understanding these threats is crucial for conservation efforts and for anyone looking to create a safe haven for hummingbirds in their own backyard.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.