The European bee-eater's name derives from its diet. The European bee-eater Merops Apiaster feeds mainly on hymenopterans such as wasps, bees, bumblebees and hornets. This bird has lynx-like eyes, enabling it to spot a bee in flight from a distance of around 100 meters. Thanks to its skill, it captures its victim in mid-air before returning to its perch. The bird then strikes the insect against the perch to soften it. Although insensitive to the stings of hymenopterans, the European bee-eater prefers to neutralize its victim before it releases its sting, then swallows it by tilting its head backwards.