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Look Out For These Predators That Could Be Eating Hummingbirds
By SAKSHI KHAITAN
Praying Mantis
Seeing one of these on your feeder is concerning. The Chinese mantis is notorious for unfolding its spiked forelegs to pierce into hummers' skulls and eat them alive.
Blue Jays
These songsters are often found racing and capturing hovering birds. They also eat hummers' eggs and chicks, making protective netting necessary for feeders and nests.
Cats
Since cats were introduced to their environment, hummingbirds have become critically endangered. To protect them, keep pets indoors and hang feeders 8 feet high.
Hawks
Small-bodied hawks, like sharp-shinned and Cooper's, target hummingbirds at feeders during fall migration. Move feeders indoors temporarily to keep them safe from predators.
Snakes
Snakes coil around feeders and eat hummingbirds, while black and gray rat snakes prey on eggs. Consider relocating feeders away from their haunts to keep the birds safe.