Chinese mantis

Vegetation, gardens, woodland edges, and structures near outdoor lights across much of North America; native to East Asia and introduced elsewhere.

A carnivorous ambush predator that seizes insects, spiders, and other arthropods with spined, grasping forelegs; large adults may take small vertebrates.

Usually solitary and motionless, relying on camouflage before striking. It molts several times, mates in late summer or fall, and lays a foamy egg case (ootheca) on plants or structures.

Generally harmless to people and does not damage buildings. It benefits gardens by eating pests, though it is a generalist and also consumes native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.