Praying mantis

Found in temperate and tropical grasslands, shrubs, and gardens.

Carnivorous predator feeding primarily on live insects like flies, crickets, and moths.

Ambush predator that remains motionless with raptorial forelegs raised before striking quickly; females lay eggs in foamy oothecae in autumn.

Harmless to humans and acts as a beneficial biocontrol agent by reducing garden pest populations.