Bird Predators: What Eats Birds?

The vast majority of bird species are not dangerous to humans, and many are not predators at all. Instead, they rely on a diet of fruit, nuts, and seeds. Others, known as birds of prey or raptors, such as hawks, eagles, owls, and falcons, are predators that feed on other animals, including rodents, fish, insects, or other birds. However, birds are more often prey than predators. Continue reading to discover animals that prey on birds.

Cats

Cats, especially feral ones, can be significant bird predators, although their diets vary widely depending on availability and opportunity. Both domesticated and wild cats hunt birds for meat. Bobcats, in particular, are skilled at hiding and ambushing their prey as soon as it comes within reach. Cats generally target small bird species or fledglings.

Bats

Bats are nocturnal predators. This means that most of their hunting activity is done at night. Their eyesight is well-adapted for detecting and hunting prey. They hunt for fish, lizards, frogs, and birds. Noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula) attack songbirds in flight and eat their catch while in flight. These bats prey on songbirds during the birds’ nocturnal migration. While most songbirds are diurnal (active during the day), they undertake their long migratory journeys at night to avoid most diurnal predators.

Raccoons

Never mind their adorable looks, raccoons are prolific predators. They raid bird nests searching for eggs and young birds to eat. Raccoons rarely attack adult birds, although they will feed on dead or injured birds. Raccoons may also raid chicken houses, eating any baby chicks or ducks they find.

Foxes 

Foxes are cunning bird predators that prey on young birds or chicks, as their inexperience and lack of flight make them easy prey. Red foxes are known for raiding bird nests to feed on fledglings, while arctic foxes living in coastal areas will prey on seabirds.

Snakes

Snakes like boas or pythons lunge at birds who perch too close, constricting the birds before swallowing. Other snakes raid poultry houses and bird nests for eggs and small birds. Since some birds also eat snakes, a struggle may occur when one attacks the other. The outcome depends on the size of the bird and the snake species.

Fish

Birds that fly close to water are at risk of being eaten by fish. The African tigerfish, Northern pike, catfish, and largemouth bass are known to prey on birds. The African tigerfish hunts birds that fly near the water’s surface, jumping out of the water to grab them. Other fish swim close to watering holes to catch small birds that stop to drink.

Frogs

Large frogs, particularly American bullfrogs, can eat small birds like hummingbirds and doves. Bullfrogs are opportunistic predators and will eat almost any bird they can catch, including small songbirds such as sparrows and larger birds like red-winged blackbirds.

Coyotes

Coyotes are opportunistic hunters that catch birds by the neck when the opportunity presents itself. Coyotes may occasionally hunt in small family groups, but they typically hunt alone or in pairs. They will prey on poultry and birds when the opportunity arises, especially if the birds are confined or flightless.

Weasels

Weasels are small yet prolific bird hunters. Their bodies are slim, so they can squeeze into small spaces to access chicken coops or the burrows of other animals. They seemingly enjoy feeding on the heads and entrails of chickens. Bird eggs are also on the menu for them. When weasels attack, they may kill several birds, storing the extra meat in their den.

Other Birds

Birds of prey, also know as raptors, including falcons, eagles, and hawks, will prey on smaller birds. Raptors have keen eyesight and speed, which help them attack and grab other birds. Raptors eat pigeons, ducks, and waterfowl, and a variety of smaller birds.