A praying mantis caught a hummer in my yard a few days ago -- I had no idea that could happen! Since then I've found a few references to it on the internet, including a post at a davesgarden forum last year. Just wanted to remind everyone that it's possible! I know they're highly beneficial, beautiful insects... just be sure and move them away from your feeders or plants that the hummers like, unless you're ready for a horror show! I had gone out to take photos of the mantis on my feeder before this happened because I don't see them around too often. I went back in the house, looked out the window, and it had made its catch. =shudder= I'm still getting over it!
Praying Mantis and Hummingbirds
So sorry to hear about this catastrophe for the HB but a boon for the PM.
I posted a pic of a praying mantis with an HB in his grasp earlier this year (not from my garden). Did you get a pic?
Oh, that's horrible! I've seen that pic on the internet but never heard anyone say it happened to them. :( I've got all kinds of things but the PM haven't found my yard yet. Maybe I'm glad.
Tabasco (love that name), I regret I didn't get a photo. Other hummingbirds were still using the feeder even as the scene played out -- I didn't want another one to get caught. I took the mantis to the other side of the yard and put it on a beautyberry bush, hoping a mockingbird would eat it. Evil, I know! ;-) In retrospect, I shouldn't have meddled, and I should have taken a picture. Truly an awe-inspiring moment.
P.S. I swear that mantis was angry with me! I'll never forget it.
Well, we have to let nature take her course, I guess!
Happy for you that you have hummingbirds now. If you see any of mine, tell them I miss them!