Wasps are common insects in many ecosystems. While often perceived as stinging pests, they also serve as natural pest controllers and pollinators within their habitats. This dual role makes their interactions with various predators important for ecological balance.
Birds That Hunt Wasps
Several bird species include wasps in their diet, using specialized hunting techniques. Bee-eaters, found in Africa and Asia, are particularly known for preying on flying insects like bees and wasps. These birds skillfully catch wasps mid-flight and then repeatedly strike them against a hard surface to remove the stinger and express venom before consumption. This process allows them to safely access the nutritious insect.
Other avian predators, such as summer tanagers, also exhibit similar behaviors. They capture wasps in the air, then typically fly to a perch to repeatedly hit the insect against a branch, which kills the wasp and helps to remove its stinger. Summer tanagers will even tear open wasp nests to feed on the larvae and pupae inside, showing a preference for this protein-rich food source. Northern flickers, a type of woodpecker, also consume wasps and their larvae, often digging into nests to access them; mockingbirds, sparrows, and magpies are also known to occasionally prey on wasps. Some birds, like the European honey buzzard, have physical adaptations, such such as scaly faces and strong talons, to help them raid wasp nests and protect against stings.
Insect and Arachnid Hunters
Invertebrate predators play a role in controlling wasp populations. Dragonflies are opportunistic aerial predators that will prey on wasps, particularly larger dragonfly species. Dragonflies possess exceptional eyesight and agility, enabling them to intercept wasps in mid-air using their spiny legs to form a “capture basket.”
Praying mantises are ambush predators that consume wasps. They use their powerful, spiky forelegs to quickly seize and hold wasps, often beginning to consume their prey head-first to incapacitate them rapidly. Assassin bugs employ a similar capture strategy, injecting venom into their prey to paralyze it before feeding. Certain spiders, such as orb-weavers and crab spiders, ensnare wasps in their webs or ambush them from hiding, subduing them with venom before wrapping them.
Mammals, Reptiles, and Amphibians
Mammals, reptiles, and amphibians prey on wasps, often targeting nests for their protein-rich larvae and pupae. Badgers are well-known for their ability to dig up and consume entire wasp nests, including the grubs and adult wasps. Their thick fur and tough skin provide protection against stings while excavating nests.
Skunks frequently raid wasp nests, especially underground ones. They use their strong claws to dig out the nests and consume both adult wasps and larvae. Skunks’ thick fur helps to protect them from stings. Raccoons are another mammalian predator that will exploit wasp nests for food.
Reptiles and amphibians include wasps in their diet. Lizard species, such as anoles and geckos, capture individual wasps, using quick reflexes to snatch them before being stung. Frogs and toads are opportunistic feeders that use their long, sticky tongues to capture insects, including wasps. Though they can be stung, their rapid strike and sticky tongues allow them to swallow the wasp before it can effectively sting.