|
?:reviewBody
|
-
A photograph purportedly showing a praying mantis that had just killed a hummingbird was recirculated on social media in August 2016, accompanied by a message that warned bird lovers to watch out for the dangerous insect: The image displayed here is legitimate. The photograph was taken by Sharon Fullingim and was originally published by National Geographic in the magazine's Your Shot section in September 2009: Although several images can be found online showing praying mantises killing hummingbirds on the internet, such photographs often stir up skepticism in viewers. However, these types of attacks have also been documented on video: According to the National Audubon Society, mantids likely hang around hummingbird feeders in order to catch bees and wasps that are attracted to the sugary water. However, if the mantid is hungry enough, it may decide to attack a hummingbird: While a praying mantis is certainly capable of killing a hummingbird, the National Audubon Society assures readers that it is a rare event which can be prevented by placing hummingbird feeders away from shrubbery or trees or by placing a cover over them.
(en)
|
![[This page as RDF]](http://data.gesis.org/claimskg/static/rdf-icon.gif){kind=icon}