How Do Birds Eat Wasps?
WouterSeveral types of birds eat wasps, including bee-eaters, wrens, and warblers. The majority of birds eat insects, and some species of birds regularly hunt for and eat wasps.
Solitary wasps are easier targets for birds because they don’t defend their nests. Many bird species will attack solitary wasps, but some birds will avoid wasps altogether.
Some birds will eat wasp larvae, but others will eat adults. Several species of birds are known to eat wasps, including kingbirds, wrens, and chickadees.
Some birds eat wasps because they are a source of protein and vitamins. Some species of wasps are also considered invasive pests. Birds will eat wasps to control the number of wasps in a region, but some bird species will avoid wasps altogether.
One bird species that regularly eats wasps is the House Wren. These birds have pale white eye rings, a thin bill, and a short tail. The bird’s throat is lined with tiny bumps called papillae, which form finger-like projections to hold food in place. The papillae also prevent the prey from moving back up the bird’s throat.
The summer tanagers have a unique process for killing wasps. These birds grind wasps into the bark of trees. They also graze on the stingers to break them.
The European honey buzzard is a bird of prey in Europe and Africa. It eats wasp larvae, and has a chemical deterrent to prevent wasps from stinging. The honey buzzard also has scale-like feathers on its head to protect from stings.
