Praying Mantis

Scientific Name: Mantodea

Order & Family: Order Mantodea, various families (likely Mantidae)

Size: 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 cm) depending on the species.

Gardens, meadows, forests, and grassy fields with plenty of vegetation for camouflage.

Carnivorous predator; eats insects like flies, crickets, and moths. Large species may eat small frogs or lizards.

Ambush predators that remain motionless for long periods. Known for 'rocking' to mimic leaves. In some species, females exhibit sexual cannibalism.

Generally harmless to humans but may bite if handled. Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as natural pest control.

Identified on: 6/3/2026